What feature often characterizes the underside of the Small White (P. napi) hindwings?
Answer
Noticeable pale or dusky scaling along the veins
Distinguishing the Small White (*Pieris napi*) from its close relative, the Cabbage White, often requires looking closely at the underside of the wings, particularly the hindwings. The Small White often exhibits a distinct visual characteristic: a more pronounced pale or dusky scaling that heavily outlines the veins traversing the wing surface. This scaling gives the underside a less crisp, slightly smudged appearance compared to the Cabbage White. Conversely, the Cabbage White's underside typically allows the dark spots from the upper surface to show through faintly, but it lacks the heavy, distinct dusky veining characteristic of *P. napi*.
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