This species is distinguished by the following characters: greatest depth of body 2.9-3.2 in SL; ctenoid scales on body except cycloid scales anterodorsally and ventrally; body with auxiliary scales; gill rakers 8-10 + 14-17; pectoral-fin length 1.5-1.7 times in head length; rounded caudal fin; short pelvic fins, 1.8-2.3 in head length. Colour pale grey (sometimes with diffused white blotches) with small, widely spread black spots smaller than pupil on head, body and fins; 3 dusky to blackish blotches on body at base of rear half of dorsal fin, the largest at base of last 2-3 spines; dusky to blackish saddle spot on caudal peduncle; juveniles with black-edged white spots on head and body (Ref. 39231, 90102).