[1] Two subspecies have been recognized :[1] Cypraeovula fuscodentata is known off the southern African coast from the Cape Peninsula to Port Alfred, subtidally to at least 25m.

The shell is generally smooth and caramel-coloured, flecked with pale blue or mauve, but in live specimens is usually covered with the mantle.

[4] Color variations run from black to milky white and light to dark orange to pink and brownish red.

[5] The mantle may also have randomly scattered white spots and simple papillae and has a fine granular texture.

The foot is fleshy and muscular and usually similar in colour to the mantle[5] This animal is never common, but where found, is usually associated with black sponges.