Related to Yunnanilus analis, Yunnanilus elakatis and Yunnanilus paludosus by the following common characters: lateral line incomplete, pores of the lateral line system present on head, body without scales. Can be distinguished by the combination of the following characters: lateral line very short, with only 2-4 pores; mouth terminal; barbels short; most individuals with 9 branched dorsal rays and a slender caudal peduncle (Ref. 26717).