Green-veined White (Pieris napi)
As the name suggests, the green-veined whites are known for their unique yet simple combination of green and white. They are found in parts of Europe and Asia.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Pieridae
- Genus: Pieris
- Scientific Name: Pieris napi
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The mature larva is dark green in color with a faint line running down to the end of its body on each side.
Pupa
The chrysalis is also green in color, while the raised parts are bright yellowish and brown. Quite much like the other Pieris species, they overwinter as a pupa.
Adult Butterfly
Sexual Dimorphism: Faintly present
Color and Appearance: When the wings are open, they show a pure white base with dark green venation throughout the wings. In the male, the dorsal wings show a single gray spot at the center, while the female shows two small gray blotches in the same area. The corners of the wings in both the sexes are gray. When the wings are closed, the tip of the dorsal wing and the entire ventral wing shows a light yellowish green hue.
Average wingspan: Up to 50 mm
Flight pattern: Medium to fast
Quick Facts |
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Distribution | Spread across Europe and Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, Japan, the Maghreb, as well as in North America |
Habitat | Shady, forest edges, meadows, hedgerows and wooded river valleys |
Host plants | The most common and preferable is water-cress |
Adult diet | Flower nectar |
Did You Know?
- Butterfly enthusiasts often confuse the Green-veined White for its close cousin, the Small White.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Pieridae
- Genus: Pieris
- Scientific Name: Pieris napi