This species differs from other species in the subgenus Photonectes in the following set of characters: blue luminous tissue in a band extending from pectoral region to pelvic fins; with short transverse streaks between OV photophores, and in patches on sides of isthmus, under lower jaw and above end of maxillary; very long gill filaments very long, extending beyond opercular opening; shorter barbel than head length, with small bulb ending in a terminal appendage with a tiny bulb at tip (Ref. 92891).