What are signs of mole cricket damage and how can they be managed culturally?

• A. Thinning patches with underground tunneling and surface mounds; management includes improving drainage, promoting turf vigor, and targeted labeled insecticides if needed.
• B. Drought stress signs with no tunneling.
• C. Only above-ground chewing with no tunnels.
• D. Patches turn bright red with no physical signs.

Answer: (A)

Mole cricket damage is best recognized by patches of turf that thin out and die where these insects tunnel and feed underground, with visible surface mounds of excavated soil appearing as the turf is lifted or displaced. The combination of underground tunneling and surface mounds reflects feeding on roots and soil disturbance just below the surface, which weakens the grass and creates irregular, thinning patches.

Cultural management focuses on reducing habitat and stress for the turf so it’s less susceptible to damage. Improving drainage and avoiding consistently wet, compacted soils helps because mole crickets favor moist conditions. Promoting turf vigor through proper fertilization, appropriate irrigation (not overwatering), mowing at the right height, and aeration or dethatching to reduce soil compaction all strengthen the stand and make it harder for the pests to establish and cause serious injury. If damage persists or thresholds are met, applying labeled insecticides in a targeted or spot-treatment approach is appropriate, used only as needed and in accordance with label directions.

Other options don’t fit because drought stress with no tunneling misses the visible underground activity, above-ground chewing with no tunnels ignores the hallmark underground feeding, and patches turning bright red with no physical signs wouldn’t align with mole cricket tunneling and soil disturbance.