The fish exhibits a body depth ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 times its Standard Length (SL). Its mouth is relatively small, with the maxilla extending up to the eye, and it features villiform (brush-like) teeth on the jaws. Notably, there are two pores and a median pit on the chin. The dorsal fin is characterized by 12 spines and 13–15 soft rays, while the anal fin bears 3 spines and 7–8 soft rays. The scales are of the ctenoid type, and there are seven scale rows between the lateral line and the origin of the dorsal fin.In terms of coloration, juveniles display distinct vertical bars consisting of small dark brown spots or irregular blotches. The dorsal fin of juveniles is marked with dark brown to black spots on the lower half of the spinous dorsal fin and in three rows on the rayed dorsal fin. As adults, the fish takes on a uniform golden green coloration above and appears silvery below.