It is found in open, rocky areas, generally in dry forest, and in more humid vegetation in canyons. It is partly rupicolous and able to climb vertical walls within the narrow canyons of the Isalo Massif, using small holes in the walls as refuges (Mercurio et al. 2008). Individuals have also been found buried in sand found in the bottom of canyons (Mercurio et al. 2008). Andreone et al. (2006) note that the species is largely fossorial and specialised to live within the narrow and wet canyons of the Isalo Massif, and has a high dispersal capability (most likely during storms in the rainy season). 

This species is an explosive breeder; breeding aggregations were observed in pools within narrow canyons, where they live, after the first seasonal rainfall in a breeding event that lasted three nights (Rosa et al. 2011).

This species occurs in the Isalo Massif in southwestern Madagascar at 700-1,000 m asl. Surveys have shown it to occur beyond the original range near Isalo in the north, to Amparambatomavo and south to Lola (F. Andreone pers. comm. 2008). Its extent of occurrence (EOO) is 983 km² and is thought to represent fewer than five threat-defined locations.

Conservation Actions
This species occurs in Isalo National Park and is listed on CITES Appendix II. An export quota system is in place (F. Glaw pers. comm. May 2016). 

Conservation Needed
Improved protection and management of its habitat is required, including within the boundaries of the National Park.

Research Needed
Additional studies are needed to determine if this species is suitable for commercial captive-breeding operations (see Mattioli et al. 2006). Further research is also essential to fully understand the distribution, origin, type and virulence of Bd lineages found in Madagascar (Bletz et al. 2015).