Mormon Metalmark
Apodemia mormo
Least Concern (species); some subspecies criticallAbout Mormon Metalmark
A small butterfly with dark brown wings covered in white spots arranged in irregular bands. Several of its subspecies are critically endangered.
Did You Know?
The Lange's metalmark subspecies, restricted to a single sand dune in California, is one of the rarest butterflies in the world.
How to Identify Mormon Metalmark
Mormon Metalmark (Apodemia mormo) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Riodinidae. Adults typically measure 22-30 mm wingspan.
Mormon Metalmark Habitat
Mormon Metalmark is found in heathland habitats, particularly across Western North America from Canada to Mexico. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Mormon Metalmark Diet and Feeding
Mormon Metalmark feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Mormon Metalmark Found?
Mormon Metalmark can be found in Western North America from Canada to Mexico, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Mormon Metalmark can be found
Is Mormon Metalmark Dangerous?
Mormon Metalmark is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Mormon Metalmark Role in Nature
Mormon Metalmark plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Mormon Metalmark
What does Mormon Metalmark look like?
The Mormon Metalmark typically measures 22-30 mm wingspan.
Where is Mormon Metalmark found?
The Mormon Metalmark is found in Western North America from Canada to Mexico and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Mormon Metalmark eat?
The Mormon Metalmark feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Mormon Metalmark dangerous to humans?
The Mormon Metalmark is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
Is Mormon Metalmark endangered?
The Mormon Metalmark is currently classified as Least Concern (species); some subspecies criticall by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Mormon Metalmark?
The Lange's metalmark subspecies, restricted to a single sand dune in California, is one of the rarest butterflies in the world.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Mormon Metalmark (Apodemia mormo). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/mormon-metalmark
MLA:
"Mormon Metalmark." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/mormon-metalmark.