The carapace is usually 2-3 cm wide, somewhat triangular, and slightly convex. Although quite smooth, it could exhibit faint granulations. The legs and carapace are typically colored sandy or dull brown. There are a few tiny teeth or spines on the edges of the carapace, which are most evident toward the anterolateral margins. The claws are not as strong and large as those of certain other crab species. The first three sets of limbs used for walking are small and designed to move along a substrate. One of the main functions of the considerably altered and extended fourth set of legs in Dorippidae crabs is carrying items. The eyes have a wide range of vision because they are situated in front of the carapace on short stalks.