What is the life cycle characteristic of the Black Turfgrass Ataenius Beetle?

The Black Turfgrass Ataenius Beetle is characterized by having two generations per year. Understanding the life cycle of this pest is crucial for effective pest management strategies in cool-season turfgrass.

This beetle's life cycle begins in spring when adults emerge and lay their eggs in the turf. The larvae then develop and feed on grassroots, which can cause significant damage to lawns. Following this period, the larvae pupate into adults, completing the first generation. By late summer, the adults emerge again and can reproduce, leading to a second generation before winter conditions set in. This biannual reproduction cycle is important for turf managers to consider, as it indicates that there are potentially two peaks of larval activity that need to be monitored and managed within a single growing season.

The other choices suggest a different number of generations, which do not align with the known life cycle of the Black Turfgrass Ataenius Beetle, leading to misunderstandings regarding the timing and frequency of management practices necessary to control this pest effectively.