Marine; reef-associated; depth range 1 - 50 m . Tropical; 30°N - 28°S, 94°E - 124°W

Maturity: Lm ?  range ? - ? cm Max length : 40.0 cm TL male/unsexed; ; 30.0 cm TL (female)

Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. Scales large. 4 median predorsal scales; 2 scale rows on cheek. Caudal fin slightly rounded in initial phase, retained in terminal males with protruding lobes giving a double emarginate effect. Lips cover or nearly cover dental plates. Initial-phase fish without canines; terminal males usually with 1 upper canine and 2 on lower. The initial phase is characterized by a series of irregular dark chevrons which may be difficult to see on dark individuals . The basic color may range from a pale gray to a deep mahogany . Large initial phase fish develop the dark greenish markings around the lip found in the terminal phase . Body shape (shape guide): fusiform / normal;  Cross section: compressed.