Fatal Metalmark vs African Commodore Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Fatal Metalmark African Commodore Butterfly
Scientific Name Calephelis nemesis Precis pelarga
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Riodinidae Nymphalidae
Size 18-25 mm wingspan 45-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Grasslands
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Southwestern United States, Mexico Southern Africa, East Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Fatal Metalmark

A tiny dark brown butterfly with fine metallic silver lines across the wings and minute checkered fringes. Despite its ominous name, it is a harmless nectar feeder.

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Did You Know?

The name 'nemesis' refers to the Greek goddess of retribution, though the reason for this dramatic name is unclear.

African Commodore Butterfly

A medium-sized butterfly with warm orange-brown wings and subtle eyespots near the wing margins. It is common in open bushveld and grasslands.

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Did You Know?

Dry-season and wet-season forms look so different they were originally described as separate species.