How many black spots do female Cabbage Whites (P. rapae) usually display on each forewing?
Answer
Two black spots
Differentiating between the sexes of the Cabbage White (*P. rapae*) is a vital step in precise field identification, and this distinction is primarily made by counting the dark markings on the upper side of the forewings. Female Cabbage Whites consistently display two separate black spots on each forewing. One of these spots is located near the tip of the wing, consistent with the male's marking. However, the female possesses an additional, smaller black spot situated further down along the leading edge of the forewing, resulting in the characteristic count of two spots per wing.
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