Dappled White (Euchloe)
Dappled White source: commons.wikimedia.org
The Dappled White is a group of Old World butterflies from the genus Euchloe that are commonly found in parts of Asia, North America and Europe in several different species. They are known for their vibrant white looks and can mostly be seen during the spring and the summer months.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Pieridae
- Genus: Euchloe
- Common names: Eastern dappled white, western dappled white, mountain dappled white, Portuguese dappled white
- Scientific Name: Euchloe
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
Dappled White Caterpillar source: ukbutterflies.co.uk
The mature larvae vary in size and coloration, ranging from whitish to emerald green, or with spots and markings.
Pupa
The chrysalis, too, vary in color and size, that primarily camouflage clinging to the branches and leaves of the respective host trees, before they come out as an adult butterfly.
Adult Butterfly
Sexual Dimorphism: Varies between species
Color and Appearance: When the wings are open, the dorsal part shows a few spots and colors, which are relatively lesser than the ventral side. When the wings are closed, they often show a white base with random spots and markings usually in shades of green.
Dappled White Butterfly source: 3.bp.blogspot.com
Euchloe source: fr.wikipedia.org
Average wingspan: 40 to 48 mm
Flight pattern: Average to fast
Eggs
Dappled White Butterfly Eggs source: ukbutterflies.co.uk
Often elongated with a yellowish to light orange coloration, laid one at a time
Quick Facts |
|
| Distribution | Europe, Central Asia, and North America (where they are mostly called ‘marbles’) |
| Habitat | Open grasslands, forest edges, human made gardens |
| Host plants | Several species including Sinapis arvensis, Isatis tinctoria, plants from the genus Brassicaceae, etc. |
| Adult diet | Flower nectar |
Did You Know?
- The North American counterparts of these butterflies are referred to as ‘Marbles’.
Dappled White Butterfly Male source: britishbutterflies.co.uk
Eastern Dappled White source: a4.pbase.com
Female Dappled White Butterfly source: ukbutterflies.co.uk
Mountain Dappled White source: felixthecatalog.tim.pagesperso-orange.fr
Portuguese Dappled White source: fr.wikipedia.org
Western Dappled White source: upload.wikimedia.org
Scientific Classification
- Family: Pieridae
- Genus: Euchloe
- Common names: Eastern dappled white, western dappled white, mountain dappled white, Portuguese dappled white
- Scientific Name: Euchloe
