Diagnosis: lower pharyngeal bone about as long as broad, with anterior lamella shorter than toothed area; median pharyngeal teeth broadened when compared to lateral teeth; 3-4 series of scales on cheeks; 4-4.5 scales between first dorsal fin spine and upper lateral line (Ref. 53405). Dark vertical bars narrower than lighter inter-spaces (Ref. 52307, 53405).

Description: body deep (its depth 38.7-53.4% of standard length); outer jaw teeth bicuspid, posterior pharyngeal teeth tricuspid; (Ref. 53405).

Coloration: in life: ground colour greyish-white (Ref. 53405) to greenish with a golden flush (Ref. 52307). Underside of head and chest whitish, back greyish; bases of scales on sides with a greyish-blue spot (Ref. 53405). 7 narrow, dark grey cross bars (slightly forward-directed) on sides, 1st at level of occiput, last at caudal-fin base (Ref. 53405), these bars narrower than lighter areas in between (Ref. 52307, 53405). Black spot at hind angle of opercle; dorsal fin with blackish margin, its spinous part greyish, soft part lighter, with some parallel bars; anal fin greyish, black-and-white-spotted posteriorly; caudal fin greyish, also covered with black and white spots; pelvic fins dark grey; pectorals transparent (Ref. 53405).