Dark green or blue black on back, to white on belly. Belly and lower fins may turn brilliant red in spawning males. Upper body and dorsal fin with mottled or wormlike markings. Sides with pale spots and reddish spots which may have bluish rings around them. There are no black or brown spots on the head, back or caudal fin. One of its distinguishing characteristics is the white leading edge on the pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins. The rest of the fins are yellowish or reddish. They have a tail that is square, or only slightly forked. Adult size: 4 to 18 inches.