Shell up to 75 mm (about 3 inches) in length, similar to M. papalis in form, sutures prominent, whorls flat-sided, numbering from 8-10 inclusive of the protoconch. Postnuclear whorls with 2-3 spiral rows of deep pits, penultimate and last whorls generally smooth; some individuals, however, are prominently sculptured with spiral rows of pits on all whorls. Coronations at sutures are close-set and prominent. Aperture shorter or longer than the spire, smooth within; outer lip thickened and with small, sharp denticles at the margin. Columella calloused and with 4-5 distinct and oblique folds. Siphonal canal straight, heavily calloused, siphonal notch prominent. White in colour, ornamented with 4-7 bright orange or vermillion, rhomboidal and closely spaced blotches which are generally largest near the sutures; early whorls have 2-3 rows of coalescing spots; aperture light yellow within, columella creamy-white.
Measurements: Length between 30 and 75 mm, width between 12 and 25 mm

This rather common species has been confused with M. papalis by 18th century authors; besides the distinct morphological differences between the two species, M. papalis is a sand-dweller, whereas M. stictica lives on coral
reef platforms.

Range: East Africa to Polynesia.
Habitat: On reef platforms, on the underside of rocks and in coral crevices, generally on a hard reef substratum, from the intertidal zone to a depth of 100 fathoms.