Meristogenys kinabaluensis inhabits mountain primary forest. It is closely associated with rocky, cascading streams. 

This frog is often found at night perching 1–2 m high on trunks of trees or tree branchings at medium to large rocky streams. Males are usually between 50-68 mm, females may grow up to 90 mm. 

The snout is blunt and the body slightly more stocky than some other Meristogenys. The skin on the back has smooth warts. Green is the dominating color of this beautiful frog. The green eyes are stunning and make identification quite easy. 

Most of the specimens that we have seen in the field where found between 900 and 1400 m asl at clear, rocky mountain streams, where this species reproduces. 

The tadpole is light brown with a yellow hue. The upper beak of the jaws is divided, the lower beak is undivided. Snout and body are depressed and streamlined. The tail is strong. The tail tip is pointed. The tadpole can reach 60 mm in total length.