The mouth is set low on the relatively long snout, and the dorsal, pelvic and anal, fins are well back along the body.

A thin band of gold spots is sometimes present on the upper surface between the nape and the dorsal fin.

Changes to the historical distribution are unknown, but the presence of alien trout in the upper reaches of the Snowy River and within 2 km of the Blue Lake system is considered to be a restricting factor on its range.

Fish have been collected mainly from pools in streams amongst rocks, undercut banks, and overhanging grasses.

In the lake, fish were collected from rocks and small cobbles within 2 metres (6.6 ft) of the shore.