This species is distinguished by the following characters: D V,20; A 24; pectoral-fin rays 17-19; V I,5; dorsal-fin spines are closely set creating a narrow base, the first spine is greatly elongated, reaching to middle of caudal fin; dorsal lobe of caudal fin with filamentous tip; about 33 tubed lateral-line scales, the posterior margin narrowly incised or crenulated; at the anterior end of each maxilla is a short, curved spine (maxillary spine); with a short rostral barbel (Ref. 95663).