Swamp Metalmark vs Moroccan Desert Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Swamp Metalmark Moroccan Desert Mantis
Scientific Name Calephelis mutica Eremiaphila moroccana
Order Lepidoptera Mantodea
Family Riodinidae Eremiaphilidae
Size 22-28 mm wingspan 18-28 mm
Habitat Wetlands Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Upper Midwest United States, Great Lakes region Morocco
Conservation Near Threatened; extremely local Data Deficient

Swamp Metalmark

A rare and localized metalmark butterfly of midwestern wetlands with warm rusty-brown wings marked with fine metallic lines. It has very specific habitat requirements.

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Did You Know?

Some populations consist of fewer than 50 individuals, making it one of North America's most vulnerable butterflies.

Moroccan Desert Mantis

A small mantis endemic to the stony deserts of Morocco. Its reddish-brown body matches the iron-rich desert soils of its habitat.

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Did You Know?

Its body color varies between populations to match the local soil color of different desert regions.