This crab is a species of Lithodid Crab which is a type of king crab. King crabs are different from most other crabs. They are more closely related to hermit crabs and have similar characteristics. Their abdomens are twisted to one side, they have large right-handed claws, and their legs fold backwards, instead of forwards. They are able to walk forwards instead of sideways like most other crab species.

The almost circular carapace can reach a diameter of 13-14 cm. It is covered by large spikes on both the dorsal shell side and the limbs. The color is usually brown or orange. The claws are slender, relative to the body size.