Mole Crickets
Mole cricket species (tawny, southern, and short-winged; Scapteriscus spp.) are significant pests in Florida. Mole Crickets can harm Bahia and sometimes Bermuda grasses.
They are herbivorous and consume all parts of the grass plant. The southern mole cricket is a predator and scavenger. All three species tunnel through the surface layer of the soil, causing considerable damage to the grass roots. The tunneling also loosens the soil so that the grass is often uprooted and dries out. Mole crickets are often found near and along bodies of fresh water. Bahiagrass lawns that are adjacent to a retention pond are very susceptible.
Identification: Mole Crickets can be identified by the trails they leave. You can also perform a soap flush in an area you suspect mole cricket damage. If the soil is especially dry, try applying more fresh water to flush them out.
Date: November 12, 2009
Categories: Turf Damaging Insects