[4][3] Asterophrys turpicola grows to a maximum size of 65 mm (2.6 in) in snout–vent length.

The colouration is drab with shades of brown and black, but the hands and feet are pigmented.

[3] Asterophrys turpicola shows unusual defensive behaviours: when threatened, the frog takes an aggressive posture, inflating its body and opening its mouth widely, thus exposing its blue tongue.

It may also attack the enemy, leaping forward with its mouth open and biting the potential predator; it may hold its grip for several minutes.

[4] The species' natural habitats are lowland and foothill rainforests at elevations below 1,000 m (3,300 ft) above sea level.