List of butterflies of North America (Riodinidae) facts for kids

Have you ever seen a butterfly with tiny, shiny spots on its wings? These special butterflies are called metalmarks. They belong to a group known as the Riodininae subfamily. Metalmarks are found all over the world, but many live in North and South America. They get their name from the small, metallic-looking spots or lines on their wings. These spots can look like tiny bits of shiny metal!

What Makes Metalmark Butterflies Special?

Lange's Mormon metalmark, Apodemia mormo langei is a rare butterfly found in California.

Metalmark butterflies are often small, but they have beautiful and detailed wing patterns. Their wings can be many different colors, like brown, orange, black, and even blue. The shiny spots are usually silver, gold, or copper. These spots help them blend in or stand out, depending on their surroundings.

Where Do Metalmarks Live?

You can find metalmarks in many different places. Some live in forests, while others prefer open fields or even deserts. They often fly close to the ground. Many species are found in warmer areas, especially in the southern parts of North America.

The Life Cycle of a Metalmark

Like all butterflies, metalmarks go through a complete metamorphosis. This means they start as an egg, hatch into a larva (caterpillar), turn into a pupa (chrysalis), and then emerge as an adult butterfly. The caterpillars often feed on specific types of plants.

Different Kinds of Metalmarks

There are many different kinds of metalmark butterflies. Each one has its own unique look and habits. Here are a few examples you might find:

• Little metalmark (Calephelis virginiensis): This small butterfly is found in the southeastern United States.
• Northern metalmark (Calephelis borealis): You might see this one in parts of the eastern U.S.
• Red-bordered metalmark (Caria ino): This butterfly has a striking red border on its wings.
• Blue metalmark (Lasaia sula): As its name suggests, this one has beautiful blue colors.
• Mormon metalmark (Apodemia mormo): This group includes several types, like the rare Lange's Mormon metalmark.

Palmer's metalmark, Apodemia palmeri is known for its distinct patterns.

• Palmer's metalmark (Apodemia palmeri): This species is found in the southwestern U.S. and Mexico.
• Nais metalmark (Apodemia nais): This butterfly has interesting patterns and can be found in the southwestern U.S.

These butterflies are an important part of their ecosystems. They help pollinate plants and are a food source for other animals. Learning about them helps us understand the amazing diversity of nature!