This species is distinguished by the following set of characters: D IX,18-20; A II,12-13; pectoral rays 17-18; tubed lateral line scales 33-48; gill rakers 5-6 + 11-12; opercular spinules 8-11; body depth 2.2-2.6 in SL; color generally pinkish brown, usually grading to yellowish or orange on lower side of body including abdomen; white stripe on midline of snout extending posteriorly on forehead and along base of dorsal fin; fins whitish to semi-translucent (Ref. 85605).