This species is distinguished by the following characters: greatest body depth 2.9-3.6 in SL; pectoral-fin rays usually 14. Colour of male green on head and upper two-thirds of body, white on ventral part with inter-connected brown bars on side; lavander bands on head; between 6th and 7th dorsal spines, a diffuse dark spot; upper pectoral fin base with a small black spot; colour of female dark greenish-brown on upper half of body with several small, white spots along middle of the side (Ref. 90102).