Which butterfly has the scientific name Gonepteryx rhamni?

Gonepteryx rhamni is the scientific name of the common brimstone butterfly.

This widespread European and Asian species is a member of the family Pieridae. Males are vivid yellow, while females are usually paler and can appear almost greenish white. Both sexes have angular wing shapes that help them resemble leaves when resting with their wings closed.

The common brimstone is associated with buckthorn plants, especially common buckthorn and alder buckthorn. Females lay eggs on these host plants, and the caterpillars feed on their leaves. Adults visit flowers for nectar and are among the butterflies that can be seen early in spring after overwintering as adults.

The species is often confused with the clouded yellow, another yellow Pieridae butterfly. The common brimstone is recognised by its pointed wing shape and the small orange spots on the underside of its wings. Its genus name, Gonepteryx, reflects its distinctive angular appearance.