Which insects are classified as surface feeders?

Surface feeders are insects that primarily inhabit and feed on the upper layers of the soil or directly on the foliage of plants, rather than burrowing underground or feeding on roots. Chinch bugs and cutworms are prime examples of these types of insects. Chinch bugs specifically feed on the sap of grass plants, while cutworms typically feed on the leaves and stems of young plants, often cutting them at the soil line.

In contrast, other choices refer to feeding behaviors that don't involve surface feeding. For instance, the first option describes insects that are adapted to living underground and do not interact with the surface where grass and turf thrive. The second option pertains to insects that target roots, which is a behavior distinct from surface feeding. The fourth option discusses insects that are dormant in winter, emphasizing a life cycle aspect rather than a feeding behavior. Understanding these classifications helps in developing effective pest management strategies for turfgrass health.