Body shape :  Elongate, moderate lateral compression

Average size :  70 to 120 cm (28 to 47 in), 2.5 to 16 kg (6 to 35 lb)

Coloration :  Characteristically pale with dark markings; coloration very variable (iridescent green-gold to light brown back, flanks green-gold, brownish, gray or silvery) with various markings (spots, vertical bands, marbling or combinations thereof); marbled fins (dorsal, caudal and anal most pronounced).

External characteristics :  Long, flattened head; eyes located high on the head; large mouth with lower jaw extending beyond long, flat snout; large, sharp canine teeth; cheeks and opercula scaled only on upper half; 6 to 9 sensory pores on each side of lower jaw; pectoral fins low on body; pelvic fins abdominal, near mid-body length; dorsal fin far to the rear next to anal fin; pronounced forked caudal fin with pointed extremities.