This taxon was traditionally considered to be a subspecies of Trachemys scripta, but it was elevated to full species rank by Seidel (2002).

Listed as Vulnerable, because its extent of occurrence is less than 20,000 km² and its area of occupancy is probably less than 2,000 km², its distribution is probably severely fragmented, and there is a probably continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat.

This species is endemic to northwestern Mexico. It is found in the Rio Mayo, Rio Yaquia and Rio Sonora basins of Sonora and possibly in adjoining Chihuahua (Iverson 1992, Seidel 2002). Historically it would have occurred down to the coast, but no longer does. Its continued occurrence in the upper parts of some of these river basins is in doubt.

There is little recent information. The limited data available suggest that it might have benefited from hydrological engineering projects in the rivers it inhabits (Legler and Webb 1970). While large adults continue to be observed in reservoirs, no small turtles have been recorded in recent times, possibly indicating failure to recruit. Several basking animals were seen at the type locality during repeated visits in the early 1980s, but only a single large animal was seen there in 2002 (Buskirk in litt. 26 Dec 2006).

It inhabits a variety of permanent and temporary waterbodies (Legler and Webb 1970), especially in rivers and backwaters. It grows to 27 cm carapace length (males) and 31 cm (females). There is apparently no information on its breeding behaviour and requirements.

Populations have probably declined, especially on the coastal plain, because of expanding intensive agriculture. Dams have been constructed in many of the rivers inhabited by the species, leaving river areas below the dams dry for extended periods. Reservoirs might be suitable habitats for adult survival, but might also inhibit breeding due to fluctuating water levels.

It is likely also harvested for food, as hoop nets have been found in shallow areas of the type locality (Buskirk in litt. 26 Dec 2006).

Turtles in general are protected from exploitation under Mexican wildlife and natural resource legislation. There appear to be no major protected areas within the species' range. Information on population status, natural history and conservation status are urgently needed. Research is needed to determine whether or not recuitment is ongoing in this species, since recent records have tended to be of very large specimens.