white butterfly

Any of several lepidopteran species of the family Pieridae that are found worldwide.

Adults have a wingspan of 1.5–2.5 in. (38–63 mm); the wings are white, with black marginal markings. The pattern and colour of many species vary with sex and season. Many of the green, slender larvae, most of which are covered with a short down, or pile, are pests of garden crops. The pupae are attached to a twig by a posterior spine and a girdle of silk. See also cabbage white.

White butterfly (Pieris brassicae).

Chr Lederer-Bavaria-Verlag

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▪ insect

      any of a group of butterflies in the family Pieridae (order Lepidoptera) that are named for their white wings with black marginal markings. The family Pieridae also includes the orange-tip and sulfur butterflies and consists of approximately 1,100 species. The adult white butterflies have a wingspan of 37 to 63 mm (1.5 to 2.5 inches). Sexual seasonal dimorphism in pattern and colour occur in many species. Many of the green, slender larvae are pests. In many species, the larvae are covered with a short down, or pile. The pupae are attached to a twig by a posterior spine and held secure by a girdle of silk.

      One of the most common whites in North America is the European cabbage butterfly (Pieris rapae), whose larva is an important economic pest of cabbage and related plants. It was introduced into North America in about 1860.

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