This species is distinguished by the following characters: D XII,9-10; caudal-fin rays 9-10 + 2 + 10; pectoral-fin rays ii, 14-15; 30 lateral-line scales; 4-4.5 scales above lateral line; 10.5-12 scales below lateral line; about 8-10 predorsal scales; 14-18 total gill rakers; moderate depth in body and caudal peduncle; short snout; scaly basal sheath on dorsal and anal fins ½–2 scales in depth; posterior corner of mouth

just posterior to vertical through forward extent of orbit; upper jaw with the first prominent anterior canine slightly smaller than second; moderately developed canines on dental ridge in small individuals 2-10, less distinct in larger

specimens; prominent canines at posterior

end of jaw 1–2 (usually 2); lower jaw with first prominent anterior canine slightly more than half size of second; teeth in 2 or 3 series on dental ridge, forming single row; first series with 3–9

small canines becoming progressively longer posteriorly, originating immediately posterior to anterior canines; first series followed by 4–10 short canines in series, sometimes 2 slightly larger canines terminally; vomer 1 or 2 canines; pelvic fin distinctly not reaching anus (Ref. 75973).