[2][1] It is known from ephemeral ponds forming in laterite soil along the coastal fringe adjoining the Karnataka Western Ghats.

The colouration is overall pale brown with prominent black markings on the dorsum, hands, feet and flanks.

[1] Microhyla laterite is only known from few localities in Udupi district and Konaje, both in the Karnataka state, at elevations of 50–80 m (160–260 ft) above sea level.

They inhabit ephemeral ponds and other marshy areas, and also occur in wet paddy fields where males have been observed to vocalize from the embankment.

Because of ongoing threats to the habitat, and the very limited area of occurrence, Seshadri et al. suggest that the species should be considered "Endangered" following the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.