Distinguished by the following characteristics: first dorsal fin spines VII; completely united pelvic fins; scales only on posterior section of the trunk; four modified basicaudal scales at the base of the caudal fin; light to dark brown body color with faint internal bars visible on lighter specimens; 2-4 enlarged re-curved canines in each jaw that project out of the mouth, point out and up in the upper jaw, down and back on the lower jaw (Ref. 92840).