This species is distinguished by the following characters: D VI-I,12; A I,12; pectoral rays 18-20; scales in longitudinal series on body 40; scales ctenoid posteriorly, cycloid anteriorly; head or prepectoral area without scales, those posteriorly on nape embedded and difficult to count; body depth 4.85-5.5 in SL; third dorsal spine of male filamentous, 2.35-2.95 in SL; caudal fin pointed and long, 1.95 in SL (in paratype; appears to have been injured and regenerating in holotype); paired fins extending beyond origin of anal fin; body with four dusky bars, each with a large darker spot; an oblique blackish bar from nape across posterior head containing a black spot on opercle; numerous small pale spots (orange-yellow in life) on head, body, and fins except pectorals (Ref. 59177).