Coloration ranges from an ashy grey or light yellow to dark brown or even pitch black. On dark individuals, the median fins have pale edges. Bony part of illicium shorter than 2nd dorsal spine; esca oblong or tapering, usually directed ventrally.

Description: Characterized by having unbranched pelvic rays except posterior most bifurcate; second dorsal spine not connected to head by membrane and slightly curved posteriorly; gill opening on or adjacent to pectoral fin lobe; presence of caudal peduncle (Ref. 90102).