Diagnosis: head and body strongly compressed; several rows of fine teeth in upper and lower jaw (Ref. 57403, 79590). Angle of mouth located below center or hind margin of eye (Ref. 57403). Interobital space 27-37% of eye diameter; 17-23 (perhaps up to 26) predorsal scales extending anteriorly to level of preoperculum or just behind eye; upper part of operculum scaled; about 57-69 scales in longitudinal series (54-66 on body and 3-5 scales on caudal fin base); 15-21 scales in rearward transverse series; 1st dorsal fin: VI; second dorsal fin: I,13 (rarely 12); anal fin: I,12-13 (perhaps 14); pectoral fins: 17-20; caudal fin lanceolate, its length about 40% of standard length, with 17 segmented rays, 15 of which are branched (Ref. 57403, 79590).

Coloration: Preserved specimens: head and body generally pale or yellowish with indistinct pigmentation except for a dark triangular patch on operculum and a basicaudal spot; a faint large oval spot below 1st dorsal fin beneath pectoral fin rays often visible; anterior margin of 1st dorsal fin spine with 2-4 black spots; flanks pale with several diffuse dark areas along midline (Ref. 57403, 79590).