Marsh Fritillary vs Cabbage Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Marsh Fritillary | Cabbage Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Euphydryas aurinia | Mamestra brassicae |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Noctuidae |
| Size | 38-50 mm wingspan | Wingspan 34-50mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Farmland |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, temperate Asia, North Africa | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern (but declining and protected under E | Least Concern |
Marsh Fritillary
A colourful butterfly with a complex mosaic of orange, cream, and brown markings across its wings. It is the most rapidly declining fritillary in Europe and is legally protected.
Did You Know?
Its populations undergo dramatic boom-and-bust cycles driven by a parasitic wasp that specialises on its larvae.
Cabbage Moth
A mottled grey-brown moth with kidney-shaped and circular stigmata on the forewings. Its caterpillar is a serious pest of brassica crops worldwide.
Did You Know?
A single caterpillar can bore deep into a cabbage head contaminating it with frass and making it unmarketable.