The dorsal rays range from 14 to 16, anal rays from 13 to 15, and pectoral rays from 18 to 19. The lateral-line scales number 16-17. There are 19-22 gill rakers on the first gill arch. The body depth is 1.7-2.0 times the standard length, indicating a deep body. Posterior margin of the preopercle and suborbital is smooth. The suborbital is scaled. The jaws have biserial teeth. Juveniles exhibit a coloration of white to light grey with yellow on the upper part of the head and body, dorsal fin, and upper and lower margins of the caudal fin. In contrast, adults are uniformly black.