Lycaena nivalis

(Boisduval, 1869)

lilac-bordered copper, nivalis copper

Lycaena nivalis is a small in the Lycaenidae, known as the lilac-bordered or nivalis copper. It inhabits the western mountains of North America. are active during mid-summer, with a period from July to mid-August. The has a wingspan of 25–29 mm. Two are recognized: L. n. nivalis and L. n. browni.

COPPER, LILAC-BORDERED (Lycaena nivalis) (8-24-11) fem, 7500 ft, amador co, ca (11) (9424459336) by ALAN SCHMIERER. Used under a CC0 license.COPPER, LILAC-BORDERED (Lycaena nivalis) (8-24-11) fem, 7500 ft, amador co, ca (1) (9421687873) by ALAN SCHMIERER. Used under a CC0 license.COPPER, LILAC-BORDERED (Lycaena nivalis) (8-24-11) fem, 7500 ft, amador co, ca (2) (9424456502) by ALAN SCHMIERER. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lycaena nivalis: /lɪˈsiːnə nɪˈvælɪs/

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Identification

Distinguished from other Lycaena by combination of geographic range (western North American mountains), timing (July to mid-August), and association with plant Polygonum douglasii. The lilac-colored wing borders provide a field mark. Precise distinguishing characters from sympatric species not detailed in available sources.

Images

Appearance

Small with wingspan 25–29 mm. Upper wing surfaces -colored with lilac borders, characteristic of the . Detailed pattern elements not specified in available sources.

Habitat

Mountainous regions of western North America. Specific requirements beyond elevation not documented in available sources.

Distribution

Western mountains of North America. Presence confirmed; precise range boundaries not specified in available sources.

Seasonality

on wing from July to mid-August. No information on larval activity period or stage.

Diet

Larvae feed on Polygonum douglasii. food sources not specified in available sources.

Host Associations

  • Polygonum douglasii - larval Sole documented plant for larvae

Life Cycle

Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Specific details on egg placement, larval instars, site, and stage not documented in available sources.

Similar Taxa

  • Lycaena xanthoidesBoth are copper butterflies in western North America; L. xanthoides (great copper) is larger and has been documented in decline in California, whereas L. nivalis is smaller with distinct lilac borders
  • Other Lycaena speciesShare coloration and characteristics; L. nivalis distinguished by size, wing pattern, and mountain specificity

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Sources and further reading