[1][3] The specific name spinapectoralis is derived from Latin spina for "thorn" and pectoralis for "of the breast" and refers to the pectoral spines in adult males.

[2] Amolops spinapectoralis live in montane evergreen forests at elevations of 647–1,722 m (2,123–5,650 ft) above sea level and are associated with wet, vertical rock faces adjacent to waterfalls.

Its natural history is poorly known but it is likely restricted to areas near cascades and swiftly flowing streams, as with other Amolops.

However, it is threatened by habitat loss and degradation caused by expanding agriculture; large areas of forest are being converted to cash crop plantations such as rubber, coffee, and tea.

The species occurs in the Kon Ka Kinh National Park and Ngọc Linh Nature Reserve.