Differs from all other Mystus sensu stricto by its strongly demarcated, narrow, midlateral longitudinal dark stripe (straddling the lateral line canal), and in having base of outer mandibular barbels slightly behind, rather than in front of, a line vertical to posterior margin of labial rictus. Adipose fin relatively short, originating at a distance of about one eye diameter posterior to dorsal fin and extending only a short distance onto caudal peduncle (Ref. 10418). Total gill rakers 24-28 (Ref. 12975). Adipose fin base longer than anal fin base, originating slightly behind dorsal; cranial fontanel extending posteriorly to base of occipital process (Ref. 43281).