This species has been collected from a river back near disturbed evergreen forest patches (Biju et al. 2011). During the day, adults usually hide under rocks, but subadults are active during the day (Biju et al. 2011). At night, adults can usually be seen on rocks within and next to streams (Biju et al. 2011). Jose et al. (2014) reported it from torrential streams within evergreen forests, and Myristica swamps. It can be found close to plantations and secondary forest, but is restricted to the forest (S. Garg pers. comm. March 2021). Breeding takes place in streams by larval development.

This species was previously considered to be widespread in the Western Ghats. However, Biju et al. (2011) designated a lectotype and redelimited its confirmed range as Athirimala, Bonakkad, Ponmudi and Kallar in Kerala State, and Maramalai-Kiripara, Shenkottah and Sengaltheri in Tamil Nadu State. It was also reported it from the basins of the rivers Anchal, Kulathupuzha and Shendurney in Kerala State (Jose et al. 2014). It occurs between 140-1,425 m asl (Biju et al. 2011). Its extent of occurrence (EOO) is 2,872 km².

Conservation Actions In-Place
At least 80% of the species' distribution is estimated to occur within Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve (Biju et al. 2011), however the management of this reserve permits many of the threatening activities listed in the threat section to take place within the buffer zones (including Ponmudi ecotourism zone and the following tea plantations: Manjolai and Singampatti estates).

Conservation Needed
The management of the of the reserve could improve the protection of streams to ensure the survival of this species.

Research Needed
Further work is required to clarify the population size and trends of this species, and on the effects of Bd.