The lesser Chinese softshell turtle (Pelodiscus parviformis) is a species of turtle in the family Trionychidae.[3] It is endemic to China, where it inhabits a small range in Guangxi and Hunan provinces. Populations of this species in Vietnam and Hainan are now considered to belong to a separate species, the spotted softshell turtle (P. variegatus).[4][5]
There is some controversy within researchers over whether or not P. parviformis is a valid species. Yang et al. (2011) deemed it a valid species.[6]Reptile Database commented that due to a lack of a revised diagnosis in this study, this species is still somewhat of unclear status.[3]
It has been proposed that this species be considered as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to its restricted range and the heavy level of exploitation it receives.[4]
