Scales between 5th dorsal fin spine base and lateral line 2.5-3 (usually 2.5). Second anal fin spine more robust than 3rd. Premaxillary groove without scales. Posterior margin of maxilla beyond a vertical through anterior margin of inner dermal eye opening. Diffused dark saddle patches along the back of live specimens 4 or 5: 1st saddle on nape; 2nd under second to 6th or 7th dorsal fin spine; 3rd beneath anterior soft part of dorsal fin; 4th beneath posterior soft part of dorsal fin; 5th on 1/3 upper caudal peduncle (or extending onto upper caudal peduncle or absent). Dorsal fin faint yellowish, with a dark patch on tip of spinous portion above a line running from middle of second dorsal spine to tip of 6th dorsal spine (rarely broader or otherwise indistinct with growth). Caudal fin pale yellow (often with a dusky trailing edge). Anal fin with anterior half yellow or dull orange, posterior whitish hyaline (Rarely dusky). Pectoral fins yellowish color, grading to hyaline at the tip. Pelvic fins yellow or dull orange (hyaline in Thai and Indonesian specimens). Supraneural bones 3.