This species is distinguished by the following characters: D 21- 22; A 10; pectoral-fin rays 15-17; gill-rakers 12-13 + 32-33 (total 43-47); vertebrae 52-53; origin of pelvic fins about one-third eye diameter posterior to a vertical at rear base of dorsal fin; colour when preserved in alcohol: dark purplish grey on dorsal half of body (iridescent blue where scales present), abruptly pale silvery grey on ventral half; a faint dusky blotch posterior to upper third of opercle; when fresh, colour of body iridescent blue-green on dorsal half of body, the scale edges of upper two or three rows black, abruptly silvery white ventrally; a semicircular blackish spot posterior to upper third of opercle (Ref. 91762).