Mormon Metalmark
Common NameMormon Metalmark
Scientific NameApodemia mormo
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, dark brown, white
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, deserts, scrublands, chaparral, rocky slopes, open woodlands
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from southern British Columbia south through the western United States and into northern Mexico
Host PlantsEriogonum spp. (buckwheat)
Flight PeriodMay to October (varies by region and brood)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or stems. Larvae feed on buckwheat and are often camouflaged. Overwinters as a larva or pupa, depending on the subspecies and climate.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive combination of orange-brown and dark brown/black coloration, and the numerous metallic white spots. Males have reduced forelegs, characteristic of the Riodinidae family.
Description
A small butterfly with a striking pattern of bright orange-brown patches on a dark brown to black background, heavily adorned with numerous small, metallic white spots across both forewings and hindwings.
