Cryptocentrus altipinna, n. sp. is described as a new species, distinguished from other species of Cryptocentrus in having ctenoid scales on the body, a high first dorsal fin, and the predorsal area without scales. The species is known only from a few specimens from the Indian Ocean and appears closest to C. caeruleomaculatus, which is not found in the central or western Indian Ocean. The new species is most similar to C. caeruleomaculatus and C. strigilliceps, forming a complex characterized mainly by having ctenoid scales posteriorly on the body (vs. all cycloid), among a set of other features. These latter two species are redescribed based on examination of material in several institutions.