A member of the group of species with complete or nearly complete lateral line, 8 1/2 branched dorsal rays, 9+8 branched caudal rays and no sexual dimorphism. It can be distinguished by its complete lateral line and inflated cheeks (Ref. 39226). Absence or small median notch in upper lip; head length 3.7-4.0 times in SL; body depth 5.7-6.1 times in SL; caudal peduncle with a low adipose keel, length 6.4-6.8 times in SL, depth 7.4-8.1 times in SL, 1.1-1.3 times in length (for individuals 5-7 cm SL); top of head vermiculated; body with 9-13 bars, slightly wider than interspaces, somewhat irregularly set, continuous across back; black bar at caudal base usually complete, sometimes not reaching ventral mid-line, bent forwards at upper extremity; dorsal base with a black spot anteriorly, followed by orange patch and a low elongate grey blotch (Ref. 43281).