The "African veined white" butterfly is a species called Belenois gidica, also known as the pointed caper. It is a common butterfly in Afrotropical regions, found in savanna habitats and active year-round, with an adult wingspan of about 5 cm. Its larvae feed on caper bushes and other related plants, and adults feed on nectar from various flowers.
Key characteristics
Scientific name: Belenois gidica
Other names: Pointed caper
Appearance: White wings with black or dark brown veins
Size: Wingspan of approximately 5 cm (40–55 mm)
Habitat: Savanna-bushveld habitats, open fields, gardens, and meadows
Activity: Adults are on the wing throughout the year
Larval host plant: Wild caper bush (Capparis sepiaria) is a primary food source for the larvae. Other host plants include Boscia and Maerua species.
Life cycle and behavior
Eggs: Laid on the underside of host plant leaves.
Larvae: Feed on the foliage of their host plants.
Pupae: Create chrysalises that attach to plant stems, leaves, or nearby structures.
Adults: Feed on nectar from flowers and are often seen fluttering in open, sunny areas.
Occurs across the Afrotropical realm, from the Eastern Cape and Kwazulu-Natal to the Lowveld and Limpopo Valley in southern Africa.
Can also be found in other parts of its range, such as the Himalayas, the Middle East, and North Africa.
