What are the two primary categories of insects that can damage turf?

The correct answer identifies the two primary categories of insects that can damage turf as surface pests and subsurface pests. Surface pests are those that inhabit the top layer of the soil or the grass, causing damage by feeding on the plants, disrupting the soil structure, or creating surface conditions conducive to disease. Common examples include certain types of grubs, chinch bugs, and aphids, which can lead to visible damage and stress on the turf.

Subsurface pests, on the other hand, live beneath the soil surface and can cause severe damage to the root systems. These pests typically feed on the roots themselves or disrupt the root zone, which is vital for the plant's nutrient and water uptake. Notable examples are root-feeding nematodes and larvae of various beetles, which can lead to turf decline and discourage healthy growth.

Understanding these categories is crucial for effective pest management, as it informs necessary actions such as scouting, identification, and control strategies tailored to the specific type of pest affecting the turf. Each category requires different management approaches based on their habitat and behavior.