It is a distinct species characterized by an elongated body, large eyes, and blackish-blue stripes, growing up to 39 cm long.

Although it possesses resistance to the toxin produced by the man o' war, this species actively avoids larger tentacles and occasionally feeds on smaller ones.

The species' agility, high vertebrae count, and specialized skin features contribute to its toxin avoidance.

Rather than using mucus to prevent nematocysts from firing, as is seen in some of the clownfish sheltering among sea anemones, the fish appears to use highly agile swimming to physically avoid tentacles.

[5] Despite its apparent tenfold greater resistance to the toxin compared to other fish, this species can still be stung by the dactylozooides (large tentacles), which it actively avoids.