This species is distinguished by the following characters: median predorsal scales 6-7; 3 scale rows on cheek,1(5-7), 2(6-9), 3(2-5); pectoral-fin rays 13-14 (usually 14); dental plates partially covered by lips and large adult with 1-2 conical teeth on side of upper dental plates; caudal fin emarginate in female and lunate in terminal male. Colour of male green with pink scale edges (pink colour sometimes cover much of the central body), green band around mouth with extension below eye and violet zone on upper head; female generally pale grey with broad zone of yellowish brown on middle of side, a small pale dot above diffuse blue-green patch on mid-side and a dark band from eye to pectoral region (Ref. 9793, 90102).