The beetle ranges from small to medium-sized with a glossy black exoskeleton.

[2] Paralissotes reticulatus is the most widespread species in its genus, having been collected from the Bay of Plenty to South Canterbury.

[2] Like other stag beetles, adult Paralissotes reticulatus has been collected from underneath the decaying logs of native trees.

The larvae are found inside rotting wood in an advanced state of decay.

Like other Paralissotes species, this beetle is mostly seen at night, but may be seen during the day during wet conditions.