Fatima Metalmark
Common NameFatima Metalmark
Scientific NameEmesis fatimella
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Mexico to Panama) and northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil)
Host PlantsLegumes (Fabaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae typically feed on the leaves of host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include its bright orange coloration with a distinctive pattern of small black spots and streaks, its small size, and the characteristic rapid, low flight of metalmark butterflies.
Description
A small, vibrant orange butterfly with numerous fine black spots and streaks arranged in rows across both forewings and hindwings. The antennae are slender and black.
