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Large white

Large white

Pieris brassicae

A species of Whites, Also known as Cabbage white, Cabbage moth, Cabbage caterpillar, Large cabbage white butterfly, European cabbage white

Large white (Pieris brassicae) is visually similar but quite larger than its close relative P. rapae. It lays its eggs on food plants such as cabbages – the origin of its common name – leading to many farmers' classifying this species as a pest.

General Info About Large white
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Attributes of Large white
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
vegetable garden; agricultural area; meadow; parkland
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Large white is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Large white is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Large white feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Large white
It is common throughout Europe, north Africa, and Asia to the Himalayas.
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Distribution Area of Large white
Europe, North Africa, Asia
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Appearance of Large white
The large white eggs appear as a pale yellow colour. They turn into a darker yellow within twenty-four hours of being oviposited.They are also observed to have a grey and black head. For both males and females, the wings are white with black tips on the forewings. The female also has two black spots on each forewing. The underside of each wing is a pale greenish and serves as excellent camouflage when at rest. The black markings are generally darker in the summer brood. The large white butterfly's wingspan reaches 5 - 7 cm on average.
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How to Identify Large white?

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Life Cycle of Large white
Egg The egg stage involves the large white being laid, often on the underside of plant leaves. These eggs are tiny, spherical, and may range in color from white to yellowish.
Larva During the larval stage, the large white is a caterpillar that grows significantly, molting several times. It's characterized by a voracious appetite and may be variously colored for camouflage or warning.
Pupal The large white enters the pupal stage encased in a chrysalis. This is a phase of transformation where it's immobile and undergoes significant reorganization, developing wings and adult structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult large white exhibits wings and is capable of flight. Distinctive coloration appears, aiding in species identification and mate attraction. The body is fully formed for reproduction.
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Adult Size of Large white
 5 - 7 cm 
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Predators of Large white Larvae
Birds, rodents, insectivorous mammals, parasitic insects, carnivorous insects
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Scientific Classification of Large white
Tips for Finding Large white
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Youth Habitat of Large white
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens, Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Large white
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens, Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Large white
To attract large white, one can use sweet substances or foods that mimic the nectar of flowers which are the food source of the adult large white, or plants from the Brassicaceae family as host plants for the larvae.
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Habitat Preferences of Large white Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of large white are typically found on the underside of cabbage family leaves, providing a hidden and food-rich site. As they metamorphose into caterpillars, their presence is often observed on a variety of cruciferous plants where they feed voraciously. Searching for the chrysalis might require focusing on sheltered locations like the underside of leaves, stems, or sometimes nearby structures, as they seek secure sites for pupation. Adult large white usually frequent flower gardens, fields, and meadows, seeking nectar and suitable plants on which to lay their eggs.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Large white
The most suitable time to find large white is during warmer months, particularly in spring and summer when they are active and in their flying stages or when caterpillars are feeding.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Large white
Weather conditions that are sunny, warm, and calm without too much wind are ideal for finding large white since these conditions are favorable for their flight and activity.
Are Large white harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Large white
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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of large white voraciously consume the leaves of cruciferous vegetables, leading to the severe defoliation and compromising plant health. Large populations can lead to complete crop loss, affecting food supplies and agricultural economies.

More Effects of Large white

Beneficial Effects of Large white
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Large white is a well-known pollinator which is typically attracted to flowers by their color and shape. While feeding on pollen or nectar, large white inadvertently transfers pollen from one flower to another, aiding in plant reproduction. They show a preference for plants like cabbage but will visit various types.
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