Diagnosis: caudal peduncle short and deep, its depth twice as large as the horizontal distance between the adipose and caudal fin bases and in some specimens even deeper; anterior edge of pectoral spine fully serrate with serrations that are smaller but more numerous than those along posterior edge of spine; barbels very long, e.g. external mandibular barbel reaching beyond tip of pectoral spine, maxillary barbel reaching at least to pectoral spine base; adipose fin always high and solid; typical colour pattern consisting of 6-10 (11) vertical rows of black dots (Ref. 81642).

Description: head and body moderately deep and elevated; head depth greater than (rarely equal to) preorbital length; adipose fin solid and higher than in other species (except for some adults of P. altipinnis).(Ref. 81642).

Coloration: preserved specimens: brown, with head usually darker than rest of body; flanks with 6-10 (11) vertical series of black or dark brown spots, these spots smaller than eyes, discrete and not merged together; ventrum pale yellow or creamy white; fins may or may not be spotted (Ref. 81642).