The head and body are flattened; the 1st dorsal fin comprises 3 isolated spines on the head (cephalic spines) and a group of 3 short, slender spines behind the head (postcephalic spines). The esca (lure) includes a pennant-like flap, long cirri, and typically 2 small, dark, stalked shrimp-like “eyes.”In terms of coloration, it ranges from light to dark brown above, being lighter below. The dorsal surface is often mottled, and all fin rays have pale tips. The pigmentation of the peritoneum varies, usually being dusky, with light and dark extremes being rare.