This species is characterized by its elongate body, with a depth measuring 3.0–3.7 times the standard length (SL). The preopercle features enlarged serrae at the angle, and the anal fin consists of 3 spines and 8 soft rays. The interorbital width is 4.5–6.5 times the head length and 2.1–3.2 times the upper jaw length. There are 18–20 rays in the pectoral fin, and the caudal fin is rounded. The lateral body scales are rough, with auxiliary scales. Brownish color cover the head, body, and fins, adorned with small, well-separated blackish-brown spots. Irregular white or pale spots or blotches are usually present on the head and body, and the fins exhibit scattered small black spots.