Diagnosis: caudal peduncle relatively long, with minimal depth as large as horizontal distance between adipose and caudal fin bases, or slightly larger (never twice as large)(Ref. 81642). Pectoral spine only partially and slightly, or not at all, serrated on its anterior margin; preorbital head length less than maximum head depth (Ref. 50834, 81642). Colour pattern on flank strongly marked in most cases; adipose fin height 3-7% SL, dorsal fin height 15-25% (28%) SL; head depth 56-88% head width (Ref. 81642). Barbels long, e.g. external mandibular barbel minimally 1.3 times HL, reaching to beyond tip of pectoral fin spine, maxillary barbel always reaching base of pectoral fin spine or even further (Ref. 50834, 81642). Whole body with equally large dots (Ref. 81642).

Description: Body moderately low (Ref. 81642). Caudal peduncle depth about 1.5 times horizontal distance between adipose and caudal fin bases (Ref. 50834, 81642).

Coloration: preserved specimens brownish red, with numerous dark blotches on head and flanks, and adipose, dorsal and caudal fins; blotching on flanks may be arranged in series; ventrum pale and immaculate; other fins uniform brown (Ref. 81642).