Pioneer White
Common NamePioneer White
Scientific NameBelenois aurota
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, yellow, black
HabitatOpen grasslands, savannas, scrubland, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeAfrica, Arabian Peninsula, South Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan)
Host PlantsCapparis, Maerua, Boscia, Cadaba
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, multiple broods
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and black spots, feeding on plants of the Capparaceae family. Pupae are typically green or brown, camouflaged on stems or leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include the white forewings with a prominent black apex and marginal spots, and the yellowish underside of the hindwing with strong black venation. Females often have heavier black markings than males.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with white forewings featuring prominent black apical and marginal markings, and yellowish hindwings on the underside with distinct black veins.
