In this the assumed typical form of radiata the sculpture consists of numerous, narrow, approximately-equal, flat-topped, radial riblets, with linear interspaces. There are no underlying radial folds, and the shape is regularly and broadly ovate. The coloration is exceedingly variable and of no diagnostic significance. Shell of moderate size, up to 37 mm. (1,45 inches) in length, of rather light build, roundly ovate, and with a subcentral nucleus. Sculpture consisting of numerous, regular, narrow, flat-topped radial riblets, separated by linear grooves. Coloration variable, the typical form maculated with 9 to 11 bifid radial streaks in purplish brown, upon a yellowish ground, the spatula chestnut-brown, except when varyingly clouded with whitish callus. In some examples the radial streaks are broken up into sparse dashes and chevrons.

This widely-distributed Indo-Pacific limpet is an exceedingly variable one, but nevertheless several of the more distinctive variants qualify for consideration as geographical subspecies. . In forma aster Reeve, 1855, from unknown locality, the purplish brown radial maculations are about nine, are very broad, and they alternate with narrow yellowish interspaces. In forma luzonica Reeve, 1855, from the Philippines, there is a bold radiate pattern of irregular black streaks upon a transparent yellow-ground; in forma scalata Reeve, 1855, also from the Philippines, most of the radial maculations become forked towards the margin, and in forma petalata Reeve, 1854, from North Queensland, Australia, the radial maculations in most examples join up to form a few broad bands.

The overall distribution of radiata is East Africa from Natal northward to the Arabian Sea, India, Ceylon, and the Asiatic mainland to southern Japan, the islands of the Indian Ocean, northern Australia, the Philippines, Palau Islands, Solomons down to New Caledonia, and eastward across the Pacific to as far as the Marquesas.
Distribution of the typical form:
India, Ceylon, West New Guinea and Philippine Islands.