Arthroleptis variabilis

The specific name variabilis is Latin for "changeable". This presumably refers to the wide range of coloration and pattern seen in the species.[3]

Arthroleptis variabilis is a robust frog with moderately robust limbs. Males measure 26–35 mm (1.0–1.4 in) and females 29–38 mm (1.1–1.5 in) in snout–vent length. The head is somewhat broad. The tympanum is distinct and ovoid. The fingers and toes do not have webbing but there is a very prominent, flange-like inner metatarsal tubercle. Skin is smooth but tending towards glandular posteriorly and is glandular laterally. Coloration is variable. Dorsal base coloration is black, dark gray, brown (dark, light, or ruddy), red, or olive green. Markings on dorsal and lateral surfaces range from tan, orange, light or dark brown to black, When present, mid-vertebral stripe is gray to orange. Ventral surface of throat is generally dark gray to black with white or creamy stripe along midline. The venter is white or gray with light- to dark-gray spots. The inguinal region is from pale yellow to orange red.[3]

Its natural habitats are lowland and montane rainforests up to elevations of 1,200 m (3,900 ft) above sea level. It lives among leaf litter and can be locally abundant. It is probably threatened by habitat loss, but occurs in a number of protected areas.[1]