This bryozoan forms orange, domed colonies (zoariums) or cylindrical colonies. The individual zooid is broad with a shallow sinus, a prominent ovicell and smooth frontal shield (a calcified surface) composed of external spines. The surface of the ovicell (the skeletal structure containing the brood chamber) is punctured by pores, commonly 4-5 of these pores being large, round lacunae. The embryos, present in July in British specimens, are orange in colour and may accentuate the colour of the zoarium.The colony form is similar to that of Turbicellepora avicularis. The two species may be differentiated due to the larger, sparser pores on the ovicell of Turbicellepora magnicostata. Turbicellepora magnicostata also has a wider sinus and more distinct marginal ribs.

Belgian Exclusive Economic Zone, English Channel, European waters (ERMS scope), Koksijde, Portuguese Exclusive Economic Zone, Scilly Isles, Spanish Exclusive Economic Zone, United Kingdom Exclusive Economic Zone, Zeebrugge

 In the Mediterranean it is usually found to depths of 50 m but has been recorded at 87m. In the Isles of Scilly the bryozoan is a conspicuous member of the rocky shore community and is often found on sublittoral algae.