This species is characterized by a relatively large head and an elongated body. The mouth is located terminally, and there are no barbels. The eyes are relatively small, and a distinct lateral line is observable, extending onto the caudal fin. Notably, the second dorsal fin is much longer than the first. The anal fin comprises a short first spiny ray and a second very thin one. The gas bladder features several branched appendices, capable of producing a characteristic ‘grunt’ sound. This species is recognized by its large otoliths. The body color is silver-grey with bronze traits dorsally, while the fin base appears reddish-brown, and the mouth cavity exhibits a yellow-gold hue. Post-mortem, the coloration tends to become brown.