Green-veined White
Pieris napi
The Green-veined White is a medium-sized butterfly within the Pieridae family. Its upper wings are white with dark tips, while the undersides of the hindwings feature distinctive greenish-grey veining along the veins. It inhabits damp meadows, woodland edges, and gardens and is widespread throughout Europe. The species typically produces two to three generations per year and overwinters in the pupal stage.
Details
Identification
Greenish-grey dusted veins on the underside of the hindwings; wingspan 35-45 mm; white ground color.
Social behavior
Solitary; males exhibit patrolling flights to search for receptive females.
Diet
Caterpillars feed on leaves of crucifers such as Cuckooflower or Garlic Mustard. Adults feed on nectar.
Spawning substrate
Underside of leaves of cruciferous plants (Brassicaceae).
Overwintering
Overwinters as a pupa (chrysalis) attached to plant stems, fences, or walls.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important pollinator for wild plants and significant prey for insectivorous birds and invertebrates.
Natural predators
Birds, spiders, predatory insects, and ichneumon wasps as parasitoids.
Competitor species
Other Pierid species such as Pieris rapae (Small White).
Ecosystem service
Pollination of wild and cultivated plants.
Threats
Intensification of agriculture, high pesticide use, and loss of damp meadow habitats.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
The most important feature is the dark scaling along the veins on the underside of the hindwings. Unlike Pieris rapae, the veins are marked along their entire length. The intensity of the vein markings varies between generations (seasonal dimorphism).