The species in question has a body depth measuring 2.8–3.3 times in standard length (SL) for specimens ranging from 10 to 26 cm SL. The preopercle is rounded, and the rear edge is finely serrate, with the lowermost serrae slightly enlarged. There are 18–20 pectoral fin rays, and the caudal fin is slightly to moderately rounded. The lateral line consists of 49–75 scales, and lateral body scales are rough, with numerous auxiliary scales. The body often exhibits 5–6 faint dark bars, with the last one on the peduncle. The outer triangular part of interspinous membranes of the dorsal fin is black with a pale yellow or white spot behind the tip of each spine.