Distinguished from Erromyzon compactus by having fewer bars on flank (12 vs. 16-18), a more compact body with pectoral fin extending further backward (3/4 of distance to pelvic-fin origin, vs. 1/2) and pelvic fin reaching anus (vs. not), caudal peduncle as deep as long (vs. depth 1.1-1.3 times in length), a shorter snout (69 % HL, vs. 77-86) and smaller eye (45% HL, vs. 54-56). Possesses numerous tubercles on snout, cheek and opercles, which are missing in E. sinensis, but their development might depend on season and sexual maturity (Ref. 54043).

Description: Dorsal fin with 3 simple and 7 1/2 branched rays; anal fin with 2 simple and 5 1/2 branched rays; pectoral fin with 1 simple and 17 branched rays; and pelvic fin with 1 simple and 8 branched rays (Ref. 54043).