This species is distinguished by the following characters: scales present on predorsal midline and in a single row of 2-3 scales on upper opercle; absence of scales on cheek; second spine of first dorsal fin elongated, reaching to bases of second to sixth rays of second dorsal fin when adpressed; middle pectoral-fin rays branched; a branched fifth pelvic-fin ray with a vestigial basal membrane; no deep narrow trenches between and behind eyes; colour in life and when fresh includes yellow, orange, or red bars on the cheek and yellow-to-red spots on anterior body which lack discrete dark centers (Ref. 119475).