Species Information
Lange’s Metalmark Butterfly
| Status |
Endangered Species  Endangered Species: species that have a very small population and are at risk of extinction in the wild. |
| Listed | June 1, 1976 |
| Family |
Lycaenidae (Gossamer-winged butterfly) |
| Description | Orange, brightly patterned butterfly with white and black markings |
| Habitat | Sand dunes |
| Host Plant | Buckwheat |
| Reproduction | Produces one brood in a season |
| Threats |
Decreasing habitat caused by development and a decrease in food sources resulting from the introduction of non-native species |
| Range | California |
| Status |
Endangered Species: species that have a very small population and are at risk of extinction in the wild. |
| Listed | June 1, 1976 |
| Family |
Lycaenidae (Gossamer-winged butterfly) |
| Description | Orange, brightly patterned butterfly with white and black markings |
| Habitat | Sand dunes |
| Host Plant | Buckwheat |
| Reproduction | Produces one brood in a season |
| Threats |
Decreasing habitat caused by development and a decrease in food sources resulting from the introduction of non-native species |
| Range | California |
The Lange’s Metalmark Butterfly (Apodemia mormo langei) is a species of butterfly found in western North America. They are a sub species of the Mormo Metalmark, a small butterfly in the family Riodinidae. The butterfly has a wingspan of 1 to 1.5 inches and is mostly orange and black in color. Their hindwing has a white band, and the forewing has a distinctive pale-yellow spot.
The butterfly is found in dry, open, grassy areas and chaparral habitats. They are also found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides. The butterfly is a migratory species, and can be found from southern California to Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico.
The larvae of the Lange’s Metalmark feed on plants in the genus Acmispon. Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers. The butterfly is threatened by habitat loss due to urbanization and is listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Captive breeding of this butterfly and cultivation of its host plant-along with the removal of introduced plants may be necessary for its recovery.