This fish has a rhomboidal or elliptical-shaped patch of spinules extending from above a point halfway between the nostril and eye to the posterior part of the pectoral fin. Additionally, there is a patch of spinules ventrally on the body, ranging from below the nostrils and ending approximately 1/2 to 2/3 of an eye diameter anterior to the anus. The caudal fin, in fresh specimens, appears to be double emarginate due to a slight posterior extension medially.Coloration features the dorsal half of the body in light brown with several dusky bands, while the side of the head and body is broadly silvery. The ventral part of the body is milky white, and the dorsal fin is dusky. The pectoral and anal fins are pale, and the gill opening is black internally. The caudal fin is dark brown, with the lobe tips appearing white.