This species is distinguished by the following characters: a fraenum; unbranched second dorsal-fin rays; second spine of first dorsal fin reaching beyond the caudal peduncle when extended (Ref. 9018); characterized further by reddish orange body color with dark scale margins forming network on side of body; head and upper back below first and second dorsal fins with dark-edged whitish bars, including bifurcate bar originating on nape and forms an inverted "Y"; longitudinal scale series 23-24; ctenoid body scales except cycloid on abdomen; nape, operculum, cheek and breast without scales; cheek without vertical rows of papillae; depth of body 3.7-4.0 in SL (Ref. 90102).