This species is characterized by the following: D VI + I,11, with the 2nd-6th spines of first dorsal fin reaching spine of second fin in male, and at least the 4th spine of first dorsal fin reaching spine of second fin in female; A I,10; pectoral-fin rays 16-17, the 2 upper rays with free tips; pelvic fins I,5, both are joined to form a disc, moderately emarginate (the shortest branches of fifth ray about 4/5 length of longest branches of fourth ray), well-developed frenum, its height in midline 1/3-2/5 length of pelvic spine; longitudinal scale series 33-35; transverse scale rows to base of first dorsal fin and to base of second dorsal fin same with 9; circumpeduncular scale rows 12; head with 7 transverse suborbital rows of sensory papillae, with 5 rows in front of row b and 2 above row b, sixth row interrupted by row b; without tentacle above upper eye margin; anterior nostril is tubular, without flap at its tip, posterior nostril slightly raised; head pigmented except for the pale band from the lower margin of eye to rear part of mouth, including angle of jaw; first dorsal fin with a nearly square dark maroon, suffused with black, blotch larger than pupil on second and third membranes at base of fin, linked with first spine by a dark band across first membrane; preserved specimen also with the oblique broad dark band visible above and behind the blotch, covering upper and posterior parts of fin (Ref. 97667).