Arizona Metalmark
Common NameArizona Metalmark
Scientific NameApodemia mejicanus
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, black, silver
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, rocky hillsides, canyons, chaparral, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, southern California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado) and Mexico
Host PlantsEriogonum wrightii, Eriogonum fasciculatum, various Eriogonum species
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant. Larvae are slug-like and feed on buckwheat. Pupation occurs on or near the host plant, and the species overwinters as a larva or pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, reddish-brown ground color with a network of black lines, black spots, and bright metallic silver-white markings on the outer wing margins and as a submarginal line. Antennae are ringed black and white with yellow tips.
Description
A small, reddish-brown butterfly with intricate black lines forming a reticulated pattern, prominent black spots, and distinctive metallic silver-white markings along the wing margins and submarginal areas.
