It refers to the distinctive colour pattern of this frog, as well as to its unusual arboreal lifestyle within predominantly terrestrial genus.

The throat and the chest are covered by variably intense brown pigmentation and scattered large dark-brown spots.

The abdomen and lower parts of the flanks are covered by a pattern of very conspicuous dark-brown blotches, each encircled by a narrow white line.

All known specimens have been found calling from various hidden perches, ranging from under a leaf on the forest floor to rocks, logs and tree buttresses at moderate heights to about 4 m (13 ft) above the ground in climbing pandanus (Freycinetia sp.)

The body form, long legs, and expanded toe discs of this species reflects its arboreal habits, which is unusual within the genus Mantophryne.