Hodges#4195

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pieris marginalis: /ˈpaɪərɪs mɑrˈdʒɪnælɪs/

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Summary

Pieris marginalis, commonly known as the margined white, is characterized by its variable classification and adaptability to different habitats. It is found across Western North America and plays a role as a canopy generalist in its ecosystem.

Physical Characteristics

Wing span: 1 1/2 - 2 1/4 inches (3.8 - 5.7 cm).

Identification Tips

Often treated as a synonym of Pieris napi or as a subspecies. Close relations include P. angelika and P. oleracea.

Habitat

Forests, meadows, deciduous woods, streamsides.

Distribution

West of the Great Plains from British Columbia and Alberta south to central California, southern Arizona, and southern New Mexico. Also found in the Black Hills, Cypress Hills, and other wooded outliers on the northern Great Plains.

Diet

Feeds on the plant family of Brassiceae.

Life Cycle

Males patrol for receptive females. Eggs are laid singly on the underside of host plant leaves on which the caterpillars feed. Chrysalis hibernates.

Reproduction

Males patrol for receptive females; eggs are laid singly.

Ecosystem Role

Canopy generalist; indicates an adaptation for habitat generalization.

Evolution

P. marginalis, P. oleracea, and P. angelika are closely related to the Eurasian P. napi (Green-veined White).

Similar Taxa

• Pieris napi
• Pieris angelika
• Pieris oleracea

Misconceptions

The classification of P. marginalis varies among authors and it is often treated as a subspecies of other Pieris species.

Tags

• butterfly
• Lepidoptera
• Pieridae
• habitat generalist
• Western North America