The species in question has a body depth measuring 2.9–3.7 times in standard length (SL). The interorbital width is 5.0–6.2 times in head length, and the preopercle exhibits enlarged serrae at the angle, along with a broad shallow notch just above the angle. The upper jaw length is 17–20% of SL. In adults, the lateral line tubes of anterior scales are branched.Pectoral fins have 18–20 rays, and the caudal fin is rounded. There are 58–65 lateral line scales, and lateral body scales are rough, with minute auxiliary scales.In terms of coloration, the head, body, and usually the median fins feature numerous orange, brownish-orange, or reddish-brown spots. The body exhibits five faint irregular greyish bars that bifurcate ventrally.