[1][2] Due to the frog’s noisy choice of habitat, S. parvus are well-known for their multi-modal system of communication that combines acoustic calls with visual display signals.

S. parvus tadpoles possess a strongly depressed body with small subcutaneous eyes, tiny external nares, a vermiform appearance with a long tail and reduced fins, and nearly pigmentless skin.

They have a markedly slender head with a pointed snout and a rather short fourth finger, distinguishing the species from its relatives.

[4] Additionally, there is an array of nanopillars across the ventral surface of the frog's toes that serve as a form of reversible adhesive that allows S. parvus to ability to remain steady even under running water conditions.[5]S.

[3] The species is found in northern Borneo in Sabah and Sarawak (Malaysia), Brunei, and northeastern Kalimantan (Indonesia) at up to 2,000 m (6,600 ft) above sea level.

Later, it was considered a junior synonym of S. tuberilinguis, but more recently it was confirmed to be distinct according to morphological and DNA sequence data.

[2][4] This frog is commonly found along the banks of small, rocky streams with clear water in primary rainforests.

[1][8] Ontogenetic development When S. parvus first metamorphosize from being a tadpole, they possess white and bluish coloration on their feet to assist with visual signaling.

[9] In terms of bodily changes, S. parvus juveniles begin as bright green, which serve as a form of camouflage as the species is known to dwell nearly mossy rocks next to rivers and streams in rainforest environments.

During this waiting period the riverside is significantly male-dominant, and a large amount of intrasexual competition takes place.

[11][10] The shallow portions of the river, or the areas where there is denser foliage – which are more suitable for egg laying – are predominantly occupied by the larger males.

[10][13] S. parvus individuals commonly live in noisy tropical rainforests near fast-flowing streams, which makes the usual acoustic means of communication less reliable.

This is especially the case in habitats like the tropical rainforest where rainfall is variable, and light can be scarce due to the overhead canopy.

Therefore, when rainfall becomes violent and the background noise intensifies, or in low light conditions, visual modes of communication become favored.

S. parvus rely on very precise and fast muscle coordination to be able to perform visual signals like foot flagging and flashing.

[14] Research studies have found that neuromuscular systems that underlie multimodal communication displays in frogs and birds possess high levels of androgenic receptors and are androgen-dependent in order to function properly.

Deforestation by logging of forests and subsequent sedimentation and alteration of stream conditions are the primary threats to S. parvus populations.