The new species is distinguished by the following set of characters: D1 III, D2 XII-XIV, D3 9-11, with first spine of D1 shorter than that of D2, its length 5.5-10.2% SL (mean 8.2%); pectoral-fin rays ii-v (iv) + 3-6 (4) + iv-viii (vii) = 13-16; A 17–21; scales below first notched lateral-line scale 3 or 3½; pored lateral line scales 15-18; scale rows in longitudinal series 32-37; circumpeduncular scales 8-12; single transverse scale row between posteriormost pored scale and anteriormost notched scale; mandibular-pore formula usually 3 + 1 + 3; orbital tentacle short, slender and pointed, its length shorter than nasal tentacle. Colouration: body generally semi-transparent white with reddish blotches and saddles; bright white blotches aligned along midlateral scale series; the dorsal surface of head with brownish blotches; head, snout and cheek, opercle, pectoral fin base, and base of 8 lowermost pectoral-fin rays black in nuptial males; undersurface of head, including pelvic-fin base, and anterior part of abdomen black, pigment sometimes extending to anus (Ref. 130804).