Hemeraia species are medium-sized pike cichlids and reach a standard length of 13.8 to 23.2 centimetres (5.4 to 9.1 in).

On the sides of the body, the areas covered with ctenoid scales are smaller than in other pike cichlids.

The infraorbitals 4 and 5 (bones below the eye socket) are fused and provided with a central sensory spore.

Compared to Lugubria, Hemeraia species have fewer scales arranged in a row along the body.

The genus Teleocichla, in which the infraorbitals 4 and 5 are also fused together and the edge of the preoperculum is also smooth, differs from Hemeraia in that it has an inferior mouth and various adaptations to life in fast-flowing waters.