What is the vein on the underside of shrimp?!


Question:

What is the vein on the underside of shrimp?

Now, I know that the "vein" on top (dorsally) of the shrimp is its digestive track. But, have you ever noticed a thinner "vein" on the underside? If you were to make a shallow incision along the 'belly' of the shrimp (like where the legs would be) you would see it. I always remove that "vein" as well, but what the hell is it? My guess is that its the nervous system. Am I wasting my time with being super anal (hehe)?


Answers:
Yes, it's the main nerve bundle (like our spinal cord). It's not toxic, nor does it have the bacteria-carrying potential of the alimentary canal on the top side of the shrimp. Take it out if you have time (I think it looks prettier without!), but leaving it in isn't going to hurt you.

Source(s):
Aquatic ecologist and seafood enthusiast. =)

It's called the intestinal vein. It's full of poop.

I believe that it is the intestine of the shrimp.

removing the vein (a euphemish for the digestive tract ) can be referred to deveining though in fact shrimp do not have any real veins, they have an open circulartory system. check this site which tells all. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/shrimps...




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