Pectoral fin is represented by a single spine in small specimens or entirely absent in individuals over 25 cm SL. Lateral line branching below the 5th to 6th spine of the first dorsal fin. The upper line reaches to the base of the first dorsal finlet, the lower line runs sub laterally. Most of the body is naked except for a large rectangular stripe of squamation extending forward from the caudal peduncle. Overall color is grayish brown; a black blotch is on membranes between the first and third dorsal-fin spine.