Toward a revised checklist of the Western Palearctic butterflies, hyperlinked to the original descriptions at species, genus and family level (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) Part III: Rationale and framework for the Pieridae.

Taxonomic and nomenclatural issues concerning the butterfly family Pieridae are reviewed in light of the rules of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN), historical classifications, recent phylogenetic studies and current usage. Particular attention is given to the classification of subfamilies and tribes, where older names and synonymies have sometimes conflicted with prevailing usage, requiring rigorous evaluation under the Code.At the tribal level, the status of Aporiini is discussed. The various interpretations concerning the species composition of certain genera are examined, and the decisions adopted for the compilation of the checklist are explained, particularly for the genera Leptidea, Gonepteryx and Colias. The status of the genus Belenois and its placement within the classification, including the resulting modifications to the checklist, are clarified. Finally, the generic structure within the tribe Anthocharidini is analysed.