This species is distinguished from its congeners by the following set of characters: D I, 22; A I, 13 or 14; precaudal vertebrae 11; scales in lateral series 27 or 28; predorsal scales 9-11; predorsal scales anterior to anterodorsal parietal pores 4 or 5; scales with distinct circular and radial striae (surrounding the former); dorsal- and anal-fin membranous margins deeply incised between rays; body depth moderate, its depth at dorsal-fin origin 23.6-25.2% of SL; snout moderate, its length 5.3-5.9% of SL; prepelvic length 27.6-31.6% of SL; anal-fin base length 30.2-33.3% of SL; body and all fins (except for distal edges and pectoral fin) generally red or reddish-orange when fresh; and small, dorsoventrally elongated black blotch just behind eye (Ref 138052).