The life history of Itylos titicaca (Weymer 1890) (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae, Polyommatina) at 5200 m in the Chilean altiplano

Abstract

Itylos titicaca (Weyner 1890) has been reported to have a narrow distribution range associated with Andean wetlands called “bofedales” in Peru, Bolivia, northeast Chile and northwest Argentina. In Chile its distribution is between the upper Puna and lower Alpine belts, recorded from 3800 to 4900 m. This study reports a new elevation record of I. titicaca above 5200 m at Sora Pata Lake, northeast of Caquena in the highlands of the Chilean altiplano. Furthermore, this finding establishes the highest report for the genus Itylos, and one of the highest reports for the family Lycaenidae, with several records of individuals breeding in extreme elevations. Further data, principally from Himalayas and other high mountain ranges, is needed to confirm whether this could be the highest record for the family Lycaenidae.