What is the typical forewing spot count for a male Cabbage White (P. rapae)?
Answer
Only one distinct black spot near the tip
Accurate identification relies heavily on examining the sex-specific differences in wing markings for the Cabbage White (*Pieris rapae*). Male specimens of this species are characterized by having only one singular, distinct black spot situated near the tip of the forewing. This contrasts clearly with the female morphology. Females generally display two black spots on each forewing—one near the tip and an additional smaller spot located further down the leading edge. Therefore, observing a single apical spot is the crucial identifier for a male Cabbage White when assessing the forewing upper side markings.
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