Swim bladder with four anterolateral extensions that are more complex than S. aeolus, but much shorter than S. maculata. Body coloration is very similar to S. maculata and S. aeolus. Body with oblique bars which are not joined as in S. maculata. The upper blotches are small, the black spot at the base of the pectoral fin is indistinct. The lateral silvery stripe is noticeable but may be quite faded.