Has a long, slender body with black and brown coloring and distinct white banding. It is a small species, growing up to 90 cm in length. During the day, it can be found hiding in rubble or sheltered areas such as wood or sponges. It is solitary and typically found on sandy bottoms. More active during night dives.

The body of this shark varies in shades of brown, black, and grey, with a variable mix of spots, stripes, and bands. All fins have distinctive white tips. It is typically solitary, living on reefs or within crevices, and has a slender, small-bodied form reaching up to 60 cm in length.