Wright's Metalmark
Common NameWright's Metalmark
Scientific NameApodemia wrighti
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black, silver
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, chaparral, rocky hillsides, canyons
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (southern California, Arizona, Nevada) and Baja California, Mexico
Host PlantsEriogonum fasciculatum, Eriogonum spp.
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants, primarily various buckwheat species. Larvae feed on the host plant, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the reddish-brown ground color with a distinct dark net-like pattern, a row of black spots near the wing edges, and the noticeable white fringe along the wing margins. Often found near its buckwheat host plants.
Description
A small butterfly with reddish-brown to orange wings, featuring a prominent dark reticulated pattern and a submarginal row of black spots often highlighted with metallic silver scales. The wing margins are distinctly fringed with white.
