General: Mormon Metalmarks (Apodemia mormo mormo) are recognized by their checkered appearance. Behaviorally, they tend to alight facing either head-up or head-down, and unlike other Metalmarks, they tend to hold their winds above horizontal (sometimes at a 45-degree angle). These are also the most common metalmark in the arid western deserts.

Taxonomy: Family: Metalmarks (Riodinidae).

Comments: The host-plant primarily is buckwheat shrubs, but perhaps some sunflowers too.

More information is available on the Butterflies and Moths of North America website.