American Zela Metalmark
Common NameAmerican Zela Metalmark
Scientific NameApodemia zela
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black, white
HabitatArid canyons, rocky hillsides, chaparral, desert scrub
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas) and northern Mexico
Host PlantsEriogonum wrightii, Eriogonum fasciculatum
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae feed on buckwheat species, and pupation occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the striking contrast between the dull forewings and bright orange, black-spotted hindwings, and the prominent white fringe along the wing margins. Its erratic, low flight in arid habitats is also characteristic.
Description
A small butterfly featuring mottled brownish-grey forewings and vibrant orange hindwings adorned with black spots, all bordered by a distinct white fringe.
