First described as Cancer calappa by Linnaeus in 1758 from a specimen originating from Ambon Island, and later in 1781 as Cancer fornicatus by Fabricius, it was finally placed in the genus Calappa by Lancelot Alexander Borradaile in 1903.

[3] Occurring in the intertidal zone to a depth of 50 m, this species has a carapace of about 15 cm, indistinctly rugose on the anterior half, with wavy lines edging the posterior.

It is active during the night hours, and is able, when threatened, to swiftly burrow beneath the sand.

It feeds mainly on mollusks such as clams, steadying them with its legs and then, using its pincers, either prising the valves apart or breaking them.

The carapace of this species curves downwards to protect their legs, this in combination with their large front claws allows this species to protect their vulnerable appendages and the front of their body from predators.