Which family is commonly known as Whites and sulfurs?

• A. Pieridae
• B. Papilionidae
• C. Hesperiidae
• D. Nymphalidae

Answer: (A)

Whites and sulfurs describe a group of butterflies that belong to a single family, Pieridae. This family is best known for its members with white or yellow wings, often with small black markings or simple patterns. The two common color-based groups—whites (predominantly white) and sulfurs (yellow or gold)—reflect the typical wing colors you’ll see among many species in this family, such as the familiar Cabbage White.

Understanding how this family differs from others helps as well: Papilionidae are the large, often tailed swallowtails; Hesperiidae are the stout-bodied skippers with hooked antennae and rapid flight; Nymphalidae are diverse brush-footed butterflies with reduced front legs. The Whites and sulfurs fit neatly into Pieridae because of their characteristic wing colors and patterns, and because many species in this family share similar life histories and host plants.