The head and body are flattened; the 1st dorsal fin comprises 3 isolated spines on the head (cephalic spines) and 1 or 2 very short slender spines behind the head (postcephalic spines). The frontal ridges are smooth, and the gill opening extends well in front of the pectoral fin base.In terms of coloration, the dorsal surface is a uniform light to dark brown, with the fleshy tendrils being darker brown or black. The ventral surface is a lighter brown or tan, and the pectoral fins are darker brown distally, but the tips of the rays are pale. The peritoneum is black.