Range - occupies a coastal band in southern Madagascar, in extremely arid habitat. Pyxis arachnoides arachnoides can be found from Tuléar to south of Anakao, Pyxis arachnoides brygooi can be found from Morombé to north of Tuléar, Pyxis arachnoides oblonga can be found in the far southeast of Madagascar.

Natural History - this small species prefers substrate composed of sand, pebbles, or organic matter. It emerges during the wet season after heavy rains. During the dry season, it hides just beneath the surface in leaf litter, gravel, or sand. These tortoises suffer from illegal collection for the pet market.