Chaperina fusca is not a rare species, but it may still be difficult to locate due to its small size and the insect-like, soft calls of the males. The species inhabits lowland and hillside primary and secondary forests.

The dorsum is dark brown to black with bluish-grey marbling, which can vary significantly in extent. The underside is marked with large cream to bright yellow spots, which are also visible along the lower flanks. Tiny, soft spurs are present on the elbows and heels. Males barely reach 20 mm in snout–vent length, while females grow slightly larger.

The tadpoles of Chaperina fusca are filter feeders with dorso-ventrally compressed bodies and moderately high tail fins. The tail tip is narrow but rounded. The tadpoles have a distinctive body shape and silvery, reflective eyes when viewed from above. A silver iris ring surrounds the pupil. In daylight, the tadpoles appear dark brown to black dorsally, but they appear lighter when photographed with a flash. Tadpoles can be found in rock holes and phytotelmata (water-filled cavities in plants or tree trunks) close to ground level. They will utilize all sorts of water receptacles, such as tins, tires, and plastic containers. On one occasion, a clutch was found in the toilet of a forest camp.