[1][2] Despite extensive searches in recent times, it is only known from collections prior to 1858.

The reasons for its disappearance are unknown but probably involve habitat loss.

Therefore, the female illustrated in the species description was chosen as the lectotype in 2001.

[4] One of the paralectotypes was in 2007 described as a new species, Pseudophilautus pardus, by Meegaskumbura and colleagues.

[1][2] The lectotype of Pseudophilautus variabilis is an adult female that measures 36–37 mm (1.4–1.5 in) in snout–vent length.