[2] Xenobrama microlepis was first described in 1989 by Akihiko Yatsu and Izumi Nakamura.

While similar to fishes in the related genus Brama, Xenobrama microlepis is unique in that it possesses short, stout gill rakers and smaller scales that are greater in number.

[2] Other characters that are unique to this species include a narrow subpectoral region, a wide interpelvic region, and lower mandible edges that come together to touch.

[2] Xenobrama microlepis is reported to be widely distributed throughout the high seas of the South Pacific Ocean.

Limited collections of stomach contents revealed a number of different food items, including squid, other fishes, and amphipods.