This species is distinguished by the following characters: D1 III, D2 I,8; A I,8 (modally); pectoral-fin rays 19 (modally, 2 free +16+1 free); head with longitudinal dermal ridge including 6 barbels; distinct color pattern, when alive: head and trunk dark brown with scattered pale spots and blotches; cheek, ventral part of head sometimes pale with deep brown spots; dark brown band on pectoral-fin base; caudal fin mostly dark brown proximally and with alternating and irregular dark brown and pale bands distally (Ref. 90262).