This species is distinguished by the following characters: D III-V + 5-7 (usually IV + 6); A I,8-10 (usually 9); pectoral rays 8-10 (usually 9); transverse scales 6; lateral scales 25-27 (usually 26); predorsal scales 11-13 (usually 12); the second dorsal spine and the first segmented ray of pelvic fin forming an elongated filament in adult male. Colouration of live male generally yellowish to reddish with neon blue stripe on uppermost part of body; median fins with widely-scattered black spots; the tips of caudal fin lobes and upper edge of pectoral fins with prominent white to yellow marking. It is similar in general appearance with P. paskai from the Upper Fly River of Papua New Guinea, but it differs modally in having usually 10 rather than 11 anal-fin rays, 9 vs 9-10 pectoral-fin rays, 25-26 vs 27-28 lateral scales, and possessing a different colour pattern, especially the neon-blue stripe on the upper body (Ref. 123693).