This species is distinct in having the following characters: D VI+I,8, A I,8; pectoral-fin rays branched, only starting with ray 10 (usually 11 or 12); cephalic sensory-pore system pattern I (complete); absence of fifth segmented pelvic-fin ray; 3-4 branches on fourth pelvic-fin ray, 3-7 segments between branches (usually 3-4); non-fimbriated genital papilla; slightly filamentous dorsal fin; 3 internal dark bars between anal-fin origin and caudal fin; lower half of pectoral-fin base with a distinct dark spot and anterior to the base is a white area (Ref. 83326). Dorsal to anal fin-ray formula 8/8.