The body is moderately elongate and compressed, with a depth measuring 2.1–2.5 times the standard length (SL). The caudal spine is small, and the caudal peduncle is slender. The caudal fin of adults is deeply emarginate, while juveniles have a double emarginate caudal fin. In terms of color, the fish is dark brown with slightly irregular lengthwise blue lines on the head and body. There is a small blackish spot at the upper edge of the opercle, preceded by a yellow band that continues in front of the eye as a double band. Additionally, the fish is capable of color change to an overall pale blue.