The head is slightly compressed with subequal jaws. Pelvic fins are fused in the middle and scales are ctenoid, except on the breast and the base of the pectoral fin. Head is devoid of scales but it features sensory canals and pores. There is a longitudinal pattern of sensory papillae rows on the cheek with some rows being multiple. An aggregation of sensory papillae is observed just behind the chin. The pectoral fin has 17–18 rays, and there are 25–28 scales in a longitudinal row. The head and body are pale grey, exhibiting irregular brown saddles and large dusky midlateral blotches. The dorsal and caudal fins display rows of brown spots while the pelvic and anal fins are white with a black margin.