This species is distinguished by the following characters: segmented dorsal and anal rays 7; pectoral rays 17-18; lateral scales 27-28; transverse scales 7; predorsal scales 13-18, extends to middleof interorbital; head and body scales are entirely ctenoid, including the breast, belly, prepelvic area, pectoral-fin base, predorsal, cheek, and opercle; cheek and opercle scales extending ventrally to lower margin; no head pores; head with transverse papillae pattern with some rows raised, forming ridges. Colouration: head, body, fins are generally red to reddish brown, the outer edge of dorsal and anal fins with frost-like, white speckling (Ref. 123361).