Climate-change-indicators
Guides
Pieridae
Whites, Yellows, Sulphurs, Orangetips
Pieridae is a large family of butterflies containing approximately 76 genera and 1,100 species, characterized by white, yellow, or orange coloration with black markings. The family was established by William Swainson in 1820. The name "butterfly" is believed to derive from the brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni), a member of this family historically called the "butter-coloured fly." The family is divided into four subfamilies: Dismorphiinae, Pierinae, Coliadinae, and Pseudopontiinae. Many species are economically significant as agricultural pests, particularly those feeding on brassicas.