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Cabbage white

Cabbage white

Pieris rapae

A species of Whites, Also known as Small white, White butterfly, Pepe ma, Imported cabbageworm

Cabbage white (Pieris rapae) derives its common name from its habits as a caterpillar, which is a ferocious pest for cabbage, kale and broccoli farmers. In North America, it is one of the first butterflies to emerge in spring, heralding the beginning of the season.

General Info About Cabbage white
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Attributes of Cabbage white
Colors
Black
Yellow
Gray
White
Habitat
town; valley; deforested land
Adult Food Sources
Lavender, asters, dandelions, red clover, marigolds
Larva Food Source
Cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, radish
Non-poisonous
The Cabbage white is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Cabbage 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 Cabbage 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 Cabbage white
It is originated in the Eastern Mediterranean region of Europe, and have spread across Eurasia thanks to the diversification of brassicaceous crops and the development of human trade routes.
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Distribution Area of Cabbage white
Europe, Asia, North Africa, throughout North America, Hawaii, New Zealand, the area around Melbourne, Australia
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Appearance of Cabbage white
The butterfly can be distinguished by the white color with small black dots on its wings. They are further distinguished by the smaller size and lack of the black band at the tip of their forewings. In appearance it looks like a smaller version of the large white (Pieris brassicae). The upperside is creamy white with black tips on the forewings. Females also have two black spots in the center of the forewings. Its underwings are yellowish with black speckles. The wingspan of adults is roughly 3.5 - 5 cm. Spring adults have smaller black spots on its wings and are generally smaller than summer adults. The egg is characterized by a yellowish color and 12 longitudinal ridges.
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How to Identify Cabbage white?

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Life Cycle of Cabbage white
Egg The cabbage white begins as an egg, typically laid on the underside of leaves. The eggs are small, oval, and may vary in color, often mimicking the hue of the plant to avoid predation.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of cabbage white emerges, characterized by its worm-like appearance. It's primarily focused on feeding, rapidly increasing in size. This stage involves several molts, where the larva sheds its skin to grow.
Pupal The cabbage white then enters the pupal stage, forming a chrysalis. During this time, it undergoes a remarkable transformation, reorganizing its body structures. The pupa is often cryptic, blending with the surroundings.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult cabbage white displays wings and functional reproductive organs. With a hardened exoskeleton, it's capable of flight, with colors and patterns that may serve as camouflage or mate attraction signals.
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Adult Size of Cabbage white
Wingspan 3 - 5 cm
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Predators of Cabbage white Larvae
Birds, small rodents, parasitic wasps, predatory beetles, spiders
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Scientific Classification of Cabbage white
Tips for Finding Cabbage white
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Youth Habitat of Cabbage white
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens and Orchards
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Adult Habitat of Cabbage white
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Cabbage white
Sweet-smelling baits such as overripe fruits or sugary solutions can attract adult cabbage white.
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Habitat Preferences of Cabbage white Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of cabbage white are typically found on the undersides of leaves, especially of cabbage and other cruciferous plants. As larvae, they are known as 'cabbage worms', feeding on the leaves of a wide variety of hosts from the same family. The pupae are usually attached to the stems of the host plants or hidden in nearby foliage. Looking for cabbage white in their different stages, one would scour vegetable gardens, fields, and areas where wild crucifers grow, methodically checking the typical plant hosts at each stage of development.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Cabbage white
Early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler are ideal for finding cabbage white as they are less active and easier to approach.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Cabbage white
Mild, sunny weather without strong winds is perfect for observing cabbage white as they are more likely to be basking or foraging for food.
Are Cabbage white harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Cabbage white
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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of cabbage white can cause mild to severe damage, often seen as holes in the leaves of crucifers like cabbage and broccoli. High infestation leads to loss of photosynthetic area, stunted growth, and reduced yields, impacting human food supply and agricultural economies.

More Effects of Cabbage white

Beneficial Effects of Cabbage 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, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Cabbage white is a key pollinator due to its behavior of visiting flowers for nectar and pollen. While feeding, pollen grains stick to the body and are carried to the next bloom, unintentionally assisting in plant fertilization. The preference for bright colors and specific shapes makes cabbage white an efficient pollinator for certain plant types.
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