Names and Taxonomy
- Common Names: Western White
- Synonyms:
- Order: Lepidoptera (Butterflies and Moths)
- Family: Pieridae (Whites and Sulfers)
- Genus Information: nk species in NV, nk in CA, 2 in US
Pontia occidentalis
Western White
Introduction:
It is a small, white butterfly with variable black and gray markings, a wingspan of about 1.5 to 2 inches, and distinctive gray-green veining on the hindwings visible from below. Males are typically more lightly marked than females, which have more extensive markings. on the forewing, a black bar at the discal cell end and 5-6 marginal "V" or chevron-shaped spots that may join a submarginal band.
Life Cycle:
Size 1.5-2 inches (38-53 mm)
Sexual Dimorphism: Males tend to have lighter markings, whereas females have more extensive, darker markings on both wings.
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)
