They are characterized by sceptrules, a type of microsclere (microscopic spicule) with a single straight rod terminating at a bundle of spines or knobs.

[2] Unlike members of the order Lyssacinosida, sceptrulophorans have dictyonal strands, meaning that their macroscleres (larger spicules) are fully fused together into a 3D framework.

They can likewise be differentiated from the order Lychniscosida by the absence of octahedral frames (lychniscs) at the nodes of their macroscleres.

[3] Glass sponges with these two traits (dictyonal strands and a lack of lychniscs) have historically been placed in the order Hexactinosida (sometimes spelled Hexactinosa).

Genetic testing has argued that dactylocalycids are more closely related to Lyssacinosida, rather than sceptrule-bearing sponges.