The species is characterized by 1) fusiform, high-spired shell attaining 18 mm in height, 2) whorls subangular, 3) moderately wide subsutural band bearing undulating scales, 4) short neck with a prominent, somewhat twisted and scaly fasciole, 5) columella with 3 weak basal folds, 6) outer lip bluntly varicose, with 6 slightly elongate teeth within and 7) sculpture of 10 broad collabral ribs and overriding scaly spiral cords of various strength; 2 main spirals occur on spire whorls, 8 are present on the body whorl.
DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT. Orania xuthedra is an uncommon species hitherto known from the Eastern Indian Ocean (Arabian Gulf to India). In the Arabian Gulf, it was recovered offshore; apart from this, no information exists about its ecological requirements. FOSSIL RECORDS. None recorded.