 |
 
 |
|
|
|
Rounded Metalmark (Calephelis nilus). Subspecies arizonensis and freemani were formerly considered distinct species.
Wing span: 11/16 - 15/16 inch (1.8 - 2.4 cm).
Identification: Male with tip of forewing rounded. Upperside brown with indistinctly checkered fringes; may have dark median band.
Life history: Eggs are laid singly in axils of host plant leaves. Caterpillars eat leaves.
Flight: Throughout the year in South Texas, although most common from March-November.
Caterpillar hosts: Boneset (Eupatorium odoratum) in the sunflower family (Asteraceae).
Adult food: Flower nectar including boneset.
Habitat: Open areas such as thorn scrub, road edges, and fencerows.
Range: Central Texas south to central Mexico.
Conservation: Habitats in the lower Rio Grande Valley should be protected and conserved.
The Nature Conservancy Global Rank: G5 - Demonstrably secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.
Management needs: None reported.
References:
Opler, P. A. and V. Malikul. 1992. A field guide to eastern butterflies. Peterson
field guide #4. Houghton-Mifflin Co., Boston. 396 pages, 48 color plates.
Scott, J. A. 1986. The butterflies of North America. Stanford University Press,
Stanford, Calif. 583 pages, 64 color plates.
Author: Jane M. Struttmann
|
 1999 -
All Rights Reserved
| |