In the Sierra Nevada, this genus is represented by four species, although only three of them, T. lugens, T. insparsa Rosenh., and T. marginicollis Rosenh., occur over 2,400 m (7,900 ft) altitude.

T. lugens distribution area spans from 2,400 to 3,200 metres (7,900 to 10,500 feet) above sea level, being the most abundant chrysomelid at these high-altitudes.

Timarcha lugens is strictly monophagous on Hormathophylla spinosa (Brassicaceae), a stunted shrub abundant in many West Mediterranean high mountains.

At the end of the summer, approximately 15 days to one month before the snow has completely covered the study area, individuals start overwintering under large plants or stones.

Although adults lay eggs during the whole summer, larval activity is restricted to a short period (early to late June) after snowmelt.

The conservation strategies to preserve the biodiversity of this high-mountain habitat are effective only if they are based on broad and accurate scientific knowledge.

T. lugens is a singular organism in being monophagous on a common mountain cruciferous, and functioning as a keystone species in this community.

However, due to several characteristics of its ecology and the management practices currently conducted in the Sierra Nevada, the short- and long-term conservation of this chrysomelid is threatened.

Unfortunately, the broad use of the high mountains to develop ski facilities leads to the removal of almost every plant taller than 15 cm (5.9 in).

Finally, the establishment of human settlements in the upper parts of the mountains (mostly associated to the ski resorts) is producing a gradual change in the microclimatic conditions in certain zones of the Sierra Nevada.

In addition, the predicted global change will also affect the mountains, producing an upward altitudinal displacement of the environmental conditions.

It is presumed that T. lugens, being a strict high mountain species, will be negatively affected by these micro- and macroclimatic changes.

Adult and larval plant range and preference in Timarcha lugens (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): strict monophagy on an atypical host.