Arctic White
Common NameArctic White
Scientific NamePieris borealis
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorswhite, grey, black
HabitatArctic tundra, rocky slopes, open areas
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Arctic regions (northern North America, Greenland, northern Europe, northern Asia)
Host PlantsCardamine, other Brassicaceae
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species is univoltine, producing one generation per year. Larvae feed on various Brassicaceae plants, and it overwinters as a pupa, adapted to cold arctic conditions.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the strong dark veining on the underside of the hindwings, which is more pronounced than in similar white butterflies, and its exclusive arctic range.
Description
A small to medium-sized white butterfly characterized by prominent dark, often greenish-grey, veining on the underside of its hindwings, contrasting with its otherwise white wings.
