S. lineatus was formerly known from the northwestern reefs of New Caledonia only. This species is now also recorded from off the eastern coast (BATHUS 1, stn DE694 and BATHUS 4, stn DW946), from Banc Eponge (SMIB 10, stn DW205), and from Banc Kaimon Maru on the Norfolk Ridge (SMIB 10, stn DW208 and DW210). Bathymetric range alive in 258-517 m, shells from 190-525 m.
A smooth form (similar to the holotype) and a form with spiral sculpture co-exist. Intermediates are present, however their quantity is low. We cannot find evidence to split this species in more than one taxon and conclude that these two forms fall within the variability of the species.
Three snow-white specimens were studied. The first belong to the smooth, typical form (SMIB 6, stn DW120). Two other specimens (KF, RH), small and belonging to the form with spiral sculpture, look at first sight distinct, but after close examination, no differences in sculpture and protoconch were found. Therefore we consider these shells merely a form until more material is available for study.
In several specimens the first part of the protoconch shows a normal development but is suddenly inflated, producing a bigger and deformed protoconch, most probably due to adelphophagy. For differences with S. excelens sp. nov. and S. harasewychi sp. nov. we refer to the comparison under these species.