Red-bordered Metalmark
Common NameRed-bordered Metalmark
Scientific NameCaria ino
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, gold, orange, metallic blue
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, riparian areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Texas, Arizona, New Mexico), Mexico, Central America, and South America
Host PlantsCroton species (e.g., Croton texensis)
Flight PeriodMultiple broods from March to November in warmer regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on various Croton species, pupating into a chrysalis before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, the shimmering brownish-gold ground color, and the striking orange border with metallic blue/silver lines on both forewings and hindwings.
Description
A small butterfly with iridescent brownish-gold wings, prominently bordered by a bright orange band often edged with metallic blue or silver lines. The underside is similar to the upperside.
