What specific shape characterizes the forewing tip marking on the Great White (P. brassicae) female?
Answer
A distinct boomerang shape extending roughly the same distance down both sides of the outer wing edge.
The female Great White, P. brassicae, has several features that set it apart from P. rapae, even though both possess two black dots. While P. brassicae also has a black smear, the defining characteristic of its forewing tip marking is its unique shape. This marking is described as a distinct boomerang shape. Furthermore, this boomerang shape extends approximately the same distance down both margins of the outer wing edge, providing a consistent geometric cue for identification of the female of this larger species.
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