The Florida softshell turtle typically has a dark brown to olive green, leathery carapace with a white or cream-colored underside, which visually conceals young turtles from potential predators. It has a long neck and an elongated head with a long snorkel-like nose. It is the largest soft-shell turtle in North America, reaching about 15.9–29.9 inches in length. The female is larger, with the average male reaching only about 14 in. The female can weigh up to 44 lb, with the record weight documented at 96 lb. The juvenile is olive-yellow with grey spots and yellow lines. There are also yellow and orange markings on the head and the plastron is gray. The markings disappear or fade as it ages.