This ark shell is usually found firmly attached to the underside of rocks subtidally, often in groups. It is much wider than it is high, and is whitish to light brown in colour with no significant markings. However, it is heavily sculptured, with radial and concentric lines that intersect and provide a grid like appearance. This roughly sculptured shell helps to distinguish it from other similar species, particularly Barbatia pistachia, which also has a grid-like sculpture, but much finer.
