About Pieridae

The Pieridae family, commonly known as whites and sulphurs, includes approximately 1,100 species worldwide. These butterflies are part of the order Lepidoptera and are recognized for their bright white, yellow, or orange wings, often with black or red markings. Pieridae butterflies are known for their strong flight and are frequently seen in open, sunny habitats. Many species in this family are sexually dimorphic, with males and females displaying different wing patterns. They are commonly found in a variety of environments, from meadows and gardens to tropical forests.

This page serves as a gateway to explore the many genera and species within the Pieridae family. Use the pagination below to browse species by letter, or read on to learn more about their key characteristics and distribution.

Key Genera of Pieridae

• Pieris: A genus of whites found globally, known for their white wings with black spots. Notable species include Pieris rapae, the Small White, common in Europe and North America.
• Colias: Known as sulphurs or clouded yellows, this genus includes species like Colias croceus (Clouded Yellow), found in Europe and Africa, with vibrant yellow or orange wings.
• Anthocharis: This genus includes the orange-tip butterflies, such as Anthocharis cardamines, prevalent in Europe and Asia, known for their white wings with orange tips in males.
• Eurema: A genus of grass yellows found in tropical regions, including Eurema hecabe (Common Grass Yellow), common in Asia and Africa, with small, bright yellow wings.

Distribution and Habitat

Pieridae butterflies are found on every continent except Antarctica, with significant diversity in temperate and tropical regions. In North America, species like Pieris rapae thrive in gardens and agricultural fields. In Europe, genera like Colias and Anthocharis are common in meadows and grasslands. In tropical regions of Africa and Asia, Eurema species dominate forests and savannas. These butterflies prefer open, sunny habitats with abundant nectar sources and host plants, such as crucifers and legumes, for their larvae.

Many Pieridae species are highly migratory, with some, like the Clouded Yellow, traveling long distances. Conservation efforts are important for some species, as habitat destruction and climate change affect their populations.