Distinguished from other members of the genus by having deeper body. In addition, it differs also from most other species by having slightly smaller scales, with modal transverse scale count 13 or more based on 68% of 47 specimens (vs. usually 11-12 rows in most other species), zigzag scale count on the caudal peduncle usually 11 (vs. 9 in most other species); and more predorsal scales 23 or more based on 54% of 56 specimens (vs. usual count of less than 23 scales) (Ref. 77038).

Description: transverse scale rows 11-15; zigzag scale rows on caudal peduncle 11; gill rakers on first arch 1-3 + 6-9 (Ref. 77038).