Characterized by semi-translucent greyish body with internal stripe of alternating white and reddish brown; large brownish patch on lower side just posterior to pectoral fin base punctuated with large irregular white spots; from nape, along dorsal fin base, to dorsal surface of caudal peduncle with 14 brown spots/saddles; above anal fin base with 6-7 similar brown and white marks; first four dorsal spines of male and first two spines of female often elongate and filamentous; all pectoral rays unbranched; longitudinal scale series 22-23; ctenoid scales except on head, nape, breast and pectoral fin base; separated pelvic fins, bases joined by thin membrane; fourth pelvic ray with 2-8 branches; depth of body 4.0-4.5 in SL (Ref. 90102).