Predorsal profile relatively steep; rostral barbels well developed, length more than one-half eye diameter; maxillary barbels absent. Somewhat similar to the much larger species C. molitorella, from where it differs markedly in coloration. Also, it is deeper bodied, especially anteriorly, and has a larger, more falcate anal fin, the distal end of which extends posteriorly to below posteriormost scales on caudal fin (Ref. 33488); 13-14 branched dorsal-fin rays; 65-68 gill rakers on lower arm of first arch; faint dark blotch on body above pectoral fin; smooth upper lip, lower lip weakly papillate (Ref. 12693). Body without reticulate pattern; pectoral, pelvic, anal and lower caudal lobe usually bright red (Ref. 43281).