Similar to E. maculatus but fewer spots and posterior ones elongated (Ref. 48635); Characterized by greyish brown color with pale blotches; head with widely scattered brown spots; diagonally elongated spots on body becoming more numerous posteriorly; dorsal fin with large dark blotches; ctenoid scales on body except cycloid on nape, thorax and lower abdomen; body with auxiliary scales; greatest depth of body 2.8-3.3 in SL; slightly rounded caudal fin; pelvic fins 1.8-2.3 in head length (Ref. 90102); head length 2.4-2.6 times in SL; flat to slightly convex interorbital area, convex dorsal head profile; preopercle angle with enlarged serrae and a shallow in indentation just above the angle; straight or slightly convex upper edge of operculum; posterior nostril not much larger than anterior nostril; maxilla reaches to or past vertical at rear edge of eye, ventral edge with blunt hook like process distally in fish larger than 35 cm SL; 2 rows of teeth on midlateral part of lower jaw (Ref. 89707).