This species is characterized by the following: distinct ctenoid scales cover the interorbital, maxilla, infraorbitals, interopercle, dorsal 4 branchiostegal rays, gular area, isthmus, chest, belly and proximal two-thirds of pectoral fin; interorbital area is slightly convex; longest dorsal fin spine equal to or longer than peduncle depth; Caudal, anal, and pelvic fins are pale (fin rays mostly reddish orange in life); a large oval, blackish brown blotch (most prominent dark mark on the head) covers most of the opercle; 17-19 pectoral-fin rays (Ref. 83528).