The fish has an oblong, highly compressed body with a conspicuous spine at the angle of the preopercle. The dorsal fin consists of 13–14 spines and 19–21 soft rays, while the anal fin has 3 spines and 18–21 soft rays. The soft portions of the dorsal and anal fins are rounded, and the caudal fin is also rounded. In terms of coloration, adults exhibit a vibrant blue body adorned with bright yellow horizontal stripes that extend to a bright yellow to orange caudal fin. The eyes are covered with a striking blue-edged black mask, and a similar vertical band in blue extends from the pectoral fin two-thirds of the way up the body. This band is highlighted in sapphire-blue at the front and bright yellow towards the rear, while the mouth appears white.