The color of the shell is typically pale, ranging from off-white to light brown, with some specimens exhibiting faint translucent or glass-like qualities.

[4] Unlike many other marine snails, Cystiscus bougei does not possess an operculum, which is a hard plate used by some gastropods to seal the shell opening when retracted.

The absence of an operculum in the family Cystiscidae suggests a different evolutionary adaptation for protection, where the small size and habitat selection (such as burrowing into sediment) play a primary defensive role.

Researchers often collect specimens by sieving fine sediments from the sea floor, especially in areas like coral reefs or sandy environments where these snails thrive.

Its small, streamlined shell minimizes resistance when moving through sand or silt, and its smooth, glossy surface prevents particles from sticking to it.