[4] This species is best known for their characteristic dorsal scales and interesting defense mechanism in which they stiffen their entire bodies when threatened.

X. javanicus is nocturnal and subsists on a diet of frogs, tadpoles and small fish.

Xenodermus javanicus is found in the Malay Peninsula (Malaysia, Thailand, and one old record from the southernmost tip of Myanmar) and parts of the Greater Sunda Islands (Sumatra, Java, and Borneo, as well as some smaller islands).

Conversely, males will be smaller in comparison, have thicker, longer tails and exhibit a hemipenial bulge.

[5] Xenodermus javanicus exhibit a peculiar property when encountering perceived threats in which they stiffen their entire body to defend themselves.