The species lives in clear or
slightly turbid water at depths of 1 to 18 m (also
reported from 122 m), in rocky areas and coral reefs.
The animals are nocturnal and not gregarious.
Size : Maximum total body length 30 cm, average
length 20 to 25 cm. Maximum carapace length 12 cm,
average carapace length 8 to 10 cm. The smallest
ovigerous female has a total length of 14 cm.