This species is moderately large (to almost 12 cm) with triserial predorsal scale pattern, relatively long pectoral fin (32.5-37.7% of SL) and 25-26 scales in the E1 row. It is most similar to A. pallidus, both with an enhanced, wide, light spot anterior to the caudal spot, lateral band high on side, posteriorly positioned midlateral spot and high vertebral number (usually 14 + 13 = 27). It differs from A. pallidus in colour pattern which includes characteristics unique for the genus: an irregularly rounded blackish spot at the corner of the preopercle and adjacent cheek; lateral band running from head to dorsal margin of caudal peduncle, interrupted by a large, elongate midlateral spot and subdivided into 2 or 3 elongate spots posteriorly; midlateral spot contiguous with or only narrowly separated from a wide dark bar running dorsally to the base of the dorsal fin, the spot and bar together forming a strongly oblique, backwards slanting vertical marking (Ref. 86501).