This small species is distinct with the following set characters: D1 III, D2 XIV-XV (mode XV) , D3 9-11; A I, 18-20; pectoral 14-17; pored lateral line scales 20-2 ; notched lateral line scales 17-19; scale rows above first pored lateral line scale 2-3; scale rows above last pored lateral line scale 2-2.5; scale rows below first notched lateral line scale 3-4; mandibular pore formula 4-5 + 1-2 + 4-5; nasal tentacle unbranched flat and broad distally; height of first dorsal fin less than that of second; caudal peduncle with a broad vertical white band behind third dorsal

fin, both sexes with blue lines or spots on head; anterior two-thirds of body and fins are black, and posterior tip of anal fin yellow in melanistic males; head and body with reddish spots, and anal fin yellow basally in pale males and females (Ref. 78435).