This common chiton is flatter than others in its genus, but still higher than most other chiton species. It is variable in colour, from mottled browns, blacks, greens and whites, to a plain orange or reddish colour, which often features one or more pairs of pale bars on opposite sides of the girdle, and an occasional white valve. It has rows of nodules on the lateral areas of the valves, and small pearly scales. The red and white form is similar to Callochiton crocinus, which is much flatter, while the mottled version can be confused with many different chiton species. However, it does not have a true striped pattern like most others in its genus, and being a Rhyssoplax species, it can be distinguished from Ischnochitonids (Ischnochiton, Callochiton) by its higher keel.
