Diagnosis. Dorsal XII, 7; anal II, 5; pectoral 10–11; pelvic
I, 3; caudal 16–17; all fin rays unbranched; vertebrae 24.
Dorsal fin with anterior, middle and posterior portions
notably elevated, first interspace moderately scalloped,
second deeply notched; dorsal fin membrane connected
posteriorly to caudal peduncle; head, body and fins densely
covered with scales, modified to form velvety prickles; a
small fleshy extension on the anterior of the isthmus; frontal
ridges parallel on interorbital; body and fins variously
marked with pale or white blotches, or small irregular spots.