Dorsal-fin rays VI + I,7-I,9, usually I,8; anal-fin rays I,7-I,9, usually I,8; scales usually extending forward to above pectoral-fin base, the longitudinal scale count 33–53 (mean scale count 47); body depth at origin of anal fin 10.5–17.8% SL; body progressively compressed posteriorly; head width slightly greater than head depth; snout short, the length equal to or less than orbit diameter; gill opening extending forward to posterior margin of orbit; one or two canine teeth at side of lower jaw; caudal fin truncate with rounded corners; pelvic fins short, round, and cup-like; pelvic spines short and fleshy; nape and body transparent dorsally with seven narrow red bars that broaden as they pass onto dusky golden ventral part of body (on some individuals, the red and gold tend to merge, making the bars indistinct); a white to pale yellow line visible dorsally on vertebral column. A small species, generally less than 20 mm SL (Ref. 89154).