There are two distinct dorsal fins: the first comprises 7 spines and the second consists of 1 spine and 9 soft rays. The anal fin features 2 spines and 8 soft rays.1st gill arch has 11–14 developed gill rakers. The caudal fin is rounded. The body exhibits 7–11 narrow dark brown bars with scale pockets above the lateral line having a dark edge. A cheek stripe is typically present and the distal half of the 1st dorsal fin is dusky to dark brown. The 2nd dorsal and caudal fins usually have a dark distal edge while other fins are usually pale. The peritoneum is silvery white with dusky spots.