The body is moderately elongated and compressed with a highly convex ventral profile. Snout is broad and blunt and the mouth is either terminal or slightly inferior. Teeth are arranged in single rows on the midline of the roof of the mouth and tongue. Scales on the top of the head come in two sizes, merging above the hind margin of the eye. The pelvic fins are relatively long, reaching the anus. The scales are fairly small, cycloid and easily shed. The coloration is silvery white when fresh.