The globose and often large shells of this small family are thin, with a low or depressed spire, and very inflated body whorl. The siphonal canal is usually deep; some species have a small umbilicus. They are ornamented with spiral ribs, giving a fluted edge to the aperture. In some species, a parietal shield is present. There is no operculum. Most species can be found living in sand, beyond the edge of the coral reef.