The fish has a deep and compressed body, with its depth measuring 1.5–1.8 times the standard length (SL). The dorsal fin consists of 13 spines and 14–16 (usually 15) soft rays, while the anal fin has 2 spines and 13–15 rays. The pectoral fins have 18–20 rays, and there are 20–23 lateral line scales. Additionally, there are 20–28 gill rakers on the 1st gill arch.In terms of coloration, the body is typically pale and often displays 6–7 dark bars, although these bars may be obscured by a dense overlay of small dark spots covering the body. There is a distinct black spot on the upper surface of the peduncle, as well as a dark spot at the upper end of the pectoral fin base. Small black spots are present above and behind the eye and across the nape.