How does the adult female *Pieris rapae* typically differ from the male based on forewing markings?
Answer
The female usually has two spots on each forewing, while the male typically has one.
Sexual dimorphism is visible in the adult stage of *Pieris rapae* through the number of dark spots present on the forewings. Specifically, the male butterfly is generally characterized by having only one distinct dark spot on each of its forewings. In contrast, the female butterfly typically displays two dark spots on each forewing. While this is a general rule, the intensity and presence of these markings can sometimes vary, necessitating observation of other features like wing shape for definitive identification.
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