Swamp Metalmark (Calephelis muticum)
Swamp Metalmarks are small butterflies found in parts of the United States. They are thus named because for their affinity for swamp or humid areas, and for having rusty metal-like mark on their wings.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Riodinidae
- Genus: Calephelis
- Scientific Name: Calephelis muticum
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The mature larva is covered with long, almost-fluffy white hairs that gives it a very unique cotton-like shape. Partially grown larvae overwinter.
Pupa
The chrysalis has a dull, more towards the darkish side in varying shades. Larval hairs are present in their bodies, while they remain attached mostly at the underside of their host plants’ leaves.
Adult Butterfly
Sexual Dimorphism: Not present (or very faintly present, with the females’ wings being slightly rounded)
Color and Appearance: When the wings are open, both the male and the female display two pairs of bright reddish or rusty brown wings that have light checkered patterns on them. When the wings are closed, the wings display a rather simple pattern with a dull orange base having black haphazard marks all over and silvery gray borders.
Average wingspan: 2.4 – 3 cm
Flight pattern: Slow, yet erratic
Eggs
Turban-shaped eggs that are laid singly on the underside of the host plant
Quick Facts |
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Distribution | Michigan, Ohio, Missouri, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Iowa and Kentucky |
Habitat | Swamps, bogs, marshes, and wet meadows |
Lifespan of adults | 8 to 12 days |
Host plants | Cirsium muticum (marsh thistle) and Cirsium altissimum (roadside thistle) |
Adult diet | Flower nectar, with the preferred flower being Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan) |
Did You Know?
- Older caterpillars can chew its host leaves in such a way that leaves a distinct windowpane pattern on them.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Riodinidae
- Genus: Calephelis
- Scientific Name: Calephelis muticum