This species is distinguished by the following set of characters: D2 XI or XII (modally 12); D2 9-11; A I,16-18 (7); pectoral fin-rays ii–iv (iii) + 4–6 (5) + vi–vii (vii) = 14–16 (iii + 5 + vii = 15 in holotype and 4 paratypes, iv + 4 + vii = 15 in 2 paratypes, iv + 5 + vii = 16 and ii + 6 + vi = 14 in single paratype specimen and non-type specimen); pored lateral-line scales 12 or 13; notched lateral-line scales 19-22; scales rows in longitudinal series 31-34; scales above 1st pored lateral-line scale 2 or 2½; scales below 1st notched lateral-line scale 3 or 3½ ; circumpeduncular scales 8; mandibular pores 3-4 + 1-2 + 3-4 (usually 3 + 2 + 3; 3 + 2 + 3 in holotype, 6 paratypes, and a non-type specimen, 3 + 1 + 3 and 4 + 2 + 4 in single paratype only); head relatively long, its length 29.2-32.5% (mean 30.6%) of SL; upper jaw length 9.2-11.7% (11.0%) of SL; first spine of first dorsal fin slightly longer than that of second dorsal fin, its length 10.8-17.9% (13.9%) of SL; anterior nostril tentacle unbranched; orbital tentacle circular, the edge slightly pointed, its length slightly less than or subequal to pupil diameter, Colouration: body generally yellowish or brownish with 6 or 7 bands, darker around lateral line; brownish blotches on each of pectoral-fin ray, forming 3 or 4 narrow bands; anal fin with 7-9 (Ref. 138615).