Distinguished by the following characteristics: eye diameter 7.7-10% SL; typically, D I,12 and A I,12; D1 spines not distinctly elongate; first and D2 fins with 3-5 brown or tan horizontal stripes; upper lip lightly pigmented to pale, absence of a dark stripe above upper lip; pelvic disk lightly pigmented to pale; 4-5 dark brown blotches along lateral midline of the body; blotches often connected by slightly lighter horizontal band of pigment along lateral midline; longitudinal papillae row b originating at vertical through anterior margin of pupil (Ref. 93147); laterally compressed head and body; large mouth and very oblique; completely scaled body with ctenoid scales; first dorsal with VII spines; pelvic fins fused forming a disc; caudal fin lanceolate (Ref. 92840).