Body oblong and compressed. Head long, 42% of SL. Preopercle rounded with fine serrae on the posterior margin; posterior part of opercle with 3 flat spines. Pelvic fin shorter than pectoral fin and inserted slightly posteior to ventral end of pectoral base. Bases of soft portions of dorsal and anal fins covered with scales. Caudal fin convex with rather sharp angles. Body and fins red; many small blue spots edged with black line scattered on body; dorsal edge of caudal peduncle with 2 prominent black spots; a pair of black blotches on tip of lower jaw.
Distribution:
From southern Florida, Bermuda to Suriname.
Remarks:
This species is easily separable from other species of Cephalopholis by having 2 prominent black spots on the dorsal edge of the caudal peduncle. (Matsuura)