The species is identified by elongated dorsal fin spines with deeply incised membrane, and the membrane between upper pectoral fin rays is only slightly incised. The dorsal fin consists of 12–13 spines and 9–11 soft rays, while the anal fin has 3 spines and 7–9 (usually 8) soft rays. There are 17–18 pectoral fin rays, and the scales are ctenoid. The coloration features two prominent bars radiating ventrally from the eye, one oblique bar posterior to the eye, five broad vertical bands on the body below the dorsal fin, a dark patch above the base of the pectoral fin, and the soft dorsal, caudal, and anal fins adorned with small dark spots. The pectoral fins have large spots.