D1 3+15; D 2 absent; P1 1+14; P2 1+7; A 2+18. Back blue-green, flankssilvery; a series of black blotches along flanks which may disappear in large adults. Body fusiform, its depth a little greater than head length which is 27 to 32% of standard length; belly with fairly sharply keeled scutes. Upper jaw with a distinct median notch when seen from above. Top of head covered with thick skin. No teeth in jaws. Caudal fin as long as head.