Diagnosis: last simple dorsal-fin ray smooth on hind margin; scale formula 4.5/26-29/4.5; 2.5 scales between lateral line and pelvic-fin base; 10 scales around caudal peduncle; 7-8 branched dorsal fin rays; two pairs of long barbels; anterior barbel not extending beyond centre of eye; posterior barbel reaching to, or extending beyond, posterior half of eye/extending beyond hind margin of eye; lateral line complete and depressed below dorsal fin, descending from midline of sides by about half a scale; maximum reported size 61 mm SL; no black spot on dorsal fin; more or less distinct dark band along middle of sides; back marked with dark longitudinal bands, particularly well visible in adults (Ref. 2940, 81282).

Description: medium-sized species; dorsal profile rounded, slightly depressed at nape; mouth subinferior; D: IV,(7)8; A: III,5; P: 14-16; V: I,7 (Ref. 2940, 81282).

Coloration: well-marked, black longitudinal band along sides; large individuals have dark longitudinal lines on top of scales in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th series above lateral line, giving back a striped aspect; this colour pattern is also found, but may be less distinct, in small adults (Ref. 2940, 81282).