Indo-West Pacific: India, Malay Peninsula, East Indies, Philippines, Hainan Island in China, Taiwan, New Guinea and northern Australia. Known from the lower Mekong.

A prominent dark brown stripe along the midline of the snout. Upper jaw distinctly wider than long; width divided by length 1.05-1.35. Sixth anal fin ray of adult males much thickened and enlarged, not reaching base of caudal fin. Fourth to seventh dorsal rays of adult males slightly elongate.

Found at the surface levels in coastal waters, estuaries and rivers. Feeds on terrestrial insects. Not seen in markets.