Distinguished by the following characteristics: body depth contained 2.7-3.2 times in SL; HL 2.2-2.4 times in SL; slightly convex interorbital area, distinctly convex dorsal head profile; preopercle angular, with 2-4 large spines at the angle; upper edge of operculum approximately straight; posterior nostril about twice as large as anterior nostril; maxilla usually reaches to or slightly past a vertical at rear edge of eye; step-like extension on lower edge of maxilla in adults; well developed canines at from of jaws, especially in upper jaw; 2 rows of teeth on midlateral part of lower jaw; pyloric caeca 7 or 8 (Ref. 89707).