Discover Nature at JCU Animals Butterflies and Moths by scientific name Pieris rapae

Pieris rapae

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Image of Cabage White butterfly

(Cabbage White)

FAMILY	Pieridae
Species	Pieris rapae
Common name	Cabbage White
Main colour(s)	White
Distinctive features	Wingspan 44/44 mm; white with black spot(s)
Campus	Townsville area

Description

Food plants are chiefly in the cabbage family (Brassicaceae/Cruciferae). They seem to prefer plants that produce mustard oils. Around Townsville these butterflies are chiefly seen associated with the introduced weed, Cleome viscosa, tickweed. Mature larvae are green to yellow to about 3 cm long, body covered in numerous short hairs; head same colour as body. Adults are white/cream on upper surface, fore wings with blackish tips and one or two black spots per wing, lower surface with yellow tinge and often black speckles.