Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

What characteristic do sod webworms exhibit in turf?

1. Creating visible holes in the turf

2. Spinning silk webbing near the soil

3. Feeding on the roots

4. Flying in large swarms

The correct answer is: Spinning silk webbing near the soil

Sod webworms are known for their distinctive behavior of spinning silk webbing near the soil surface in turf areas. This silk is typically used to create small, protective nests or webs that they inhabit while they feed on grass blades. The presence of this silk can often be a telltale sign of a sod webworm infestation. While other characteristics such as visible holes or signs of feeding damage may indicate problems with turf, they are not specific to sod webworms. Similarly, sod webworms do not primarily feed on grass roots, nor do they exhibit swarming behavior like some other pests. Understanding the unique web-spinning behavior of sod webworms helps in identifying them correctly and differentiating them from other grass pests.