The genus is monotypic with a single species, Lobactis scutaria, that is found in the Indo-Pacific region.

Lobactis scutaria is a solitary, non-colonial coral that is free living and not attached to the seabed.

The polyp can be up to 17 centimetres (6.7 in) long [2] and is embedded in a cup shaped hollow known as a corallite, surrounded by calcareous material.

[3][4] Lobactis scutaria occurs in the Indian Ocean on upper reef slopes especially where there is considerable movement of the water as a result of wave action.

Eggs and sperm are ejected through the mouth and after fertilisation, develop into planula larvae which form part of the plankton.