All that the prosperity of the race demands of the Pierides, or Cabbage Butterflies, is that they should deposit their eggs on the leaves of the cabbage; what purpose would be served by the instincts of a father?
The botanical instinct of the mother needs no assistance.

At the period of laying the father would be in the way.

Let him pursue his flirtations elsewhere; the laying of eggs is a serious business.
In the case of the majority of insects the process of education is unknown, or summary in the extreme.

The insect has only to select a grazing-ground upon which its family will establish itself the moment it is hatched; or a site which will allow the young to find their proper sustenance for themselves.

There is no need of a father in these various cases.