Description: Body depth maximum 2.0-2.5 times in standard length in fish longer than 9 cm standard length, 2.5-3.0 times in standard length in smaller fish (Ref. 4372, 90102). Maxillary reaches beyond level of eye anterior edge (Ref. 48635, 90102). Dorsal fin with 9 spines and 10-11 soft rays; anal fin with 2-3 spines and 7-8 soft rays; second dorsal-fin spine filamentous and very long, 1.7-2.0 times in standard length; pectoral fins reach beyond level of anal fin origin; caudal fin large and forked deeply (Ref. 4372, 4967, 48635, 90102). Scales on lateral line 43-47, and 2-3 scales on caudal fin; 4.5-5.5 scale rows between lateral line and base of 5th dorsal spine (Ref. 4372, 90102).

Colouration: Body silvery with 7-10 vertical series of ovoid bluish spots on sides, coalesced as bars in juveniles (Ref. 4372, 90102).