Distinguished by the following characteristics: juveniles black with white polka dots become numerous, smaller, and coalesce to form a pattern of wavy lines on the sides with growth (Ref. 37816); ctenoid scales on body except cycloid anteriorly above lateral line, thorax and abdomen; body with auxiliary scales; greatest depth of body 2.8-3.2 in SL; rounded caudal fin; short pelvic fins, 1.9-2.4 in head length (Ref. 90102); head length 2.3-2.5 times in SL; head pointed, flat interorbital area, dorsal head profile slightly convex; rounded preopercle, serrae small and mostly covered by skin; strongly convex upper edge of operculum, rear edge almost vertical, upper spine extending posterior to lower spine; posterior nostril diameter about twice that the anterior nostril; maxilla reaches to or slightly vertical at rear edge of eye; small, embedded scales on maxilla; 2-4 rows of small teeth at midlateral part of lower jaw; canines at front of jaws small or absent (Ref. 89707).