The two species differ in several aspects, including age, with G. texanum being from the older Early Pliocene to Early Pleistocene strata, whereas G. cylindricum is exclusive to the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene.Glyptotherium was a large, quadrapedral (four-legged), herbivorous armadillo with an armored carapace (top shell) that was made of hundreds of interconnected osteoderms (structures in dermis composed of bone). Other pieces of armor covered the tail and cranium roof, the skull being tall with hypsodont (high-crowned) teeth.
The two species exhibit distinct characteristics, including age, with G. texanum originating from the Early Pliocene to Early Pleistocene epochs, whereas G. cylindricum is exclusive to the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene periods. Glyptotherium was a large, quadrupedal armadillo with an armored shell composed of numerous bony plates, as well as armor covering its tail and skull.