The belly has 24–32 scutes extending from the isthmus to the anus. The first supra-maxilla is small and oval, typically minute. There are usually 14–16 lower gill rakers and the pseudobranch is concealed under the skin. In terms of color, there is a dark blotch of wavy lines behind the gill opening, and the gill cavity appears light orange when alive. The tip of the dorsal fin is black, along with the upper, lower, and posterior borders of the caudal fin.