What specific plant family is utilized by *Pieris rapae* larvae as host plants?
Answer
Plants in the mustard family (Brassicaceae).
The larvae, or caterpillars, of the Cabbage White butterfly exhibit a strong specialization regarding their food source, tying directly into their classification placement relative to other insects. They are specifically noted for utilizing plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family, commonly referred to as the mustard family. This family includes globally cultivated agricultural crops such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. This reliance on Brassicas is a key factor in the species' pest status and its ability to thrive wherever human agriculture cultivates these specific vegetables.
Related Questions
What does the specific epithet *rapae* in the scientific name *Pieris rapae* reference?What defining feature separates the Order Lepidoptera from other winged insects?Which defining characteristics place *Pieris rapae* in the Phylum Arthropoda?What specific plant family is utilized by *Pieris rapae* larvae as host plants?How does the adult female *Pieris rapae* typically differ from the male based on forewing markings?What type of metamorphosis defines the life cycle stages of *Pieris rapae*?What structural feature is critical in separating the Genus *Pieris* from other white butterflies?What distinguishes *Pieris brassicae* from *Pieris rapae* upon close wing inspection?What inherent biological trait of the *Pieris* genus aids *P. rapae*'s widespread success as an introduced species?What characteristic describes the Class Insecta within the arthropod phylum?