It is endemic to Borneo and known from central Sarawak (Malaysia) and adjacent Kalimantan (Indonesia).

The dorsum is chocolate brown with small dark spots on the trunk.

A blackish brown band runs from behind the eye to the inguinal area.

[2] Meristogenys phaeomerus occurs in hilly lowland rainforests at elevations below 300 m (980 ft).

Breeding takes place along small, clear, rocky streams.