The soft part of the dorsal fin is distinctly higher than the longest spine, and there are 49–52 (typically 50–51) pored lateral line scales. There are 9–12 (usually 10–11) scale rows above the lateral line and 17–21 (usually 18–20) scale rows below the lateral line. The coloration is silvery grey, olivaceous to dusky dark above, with a dark stripe between each row of scales. A grey or silvery stripe is present under the eye, and the opercular membrane is dark brown. The vertical fins are blackish, and the paired fins are lighter.