This species is distinguished from all its congeners by the following set of characters: D V,13 usually; A III,8 usually; ventral scutes 7-10 (modally 8); specimens >70 mm SL have 57-62 scale rows in longitudinal series, 24-29 pored lateral-line scales, and 7-9 scale rows between last dorsal-fin spine and lateral line; striated area ending before mid-point on caudal peduncle, its length 25.2–39.7% of caudal peduncle length; posterior interorbital ridges mesially curved posteriorly; posttemporal crest with rounded margin, lacking a distinct spine; spines of dorsal, anal and pelvic fins with many longitudinal helical ridges on surface (specimens >75 mm SL) (Ref. 130070).