Chinch Bugs (Order Hemiptera)
Description: The southern chinch bug is approximately 1/5" long. It is black with patches of white across the wings. The nymphs (young chinch bug) are bright red with a white band also. They average 1/20" in length.
Developmental Biology: The eggs are laid beneath the soil or in sheaths. In Florida, all stages are usually present year round. After 10 days, during the summer months, the eggs hatch and the young become adults in 3 weeks. The have piecing-sucking mouthparts which suck the plant juices from the grass.
General Behavior: The chinchbug is the most important pest of St. Augustinegrass. Both the nymphs and adults damage St.Augustinegrass. The is due to the piercing-sucking mouthparts. The damage will appear as yellowish to brownish areas in the lawn. A total lawn could be killed if the feeding is not stopped. Several varieties of St. Augustinegrass provide some resistance to chinch bugs. These include: Floratam, Floralawn.
Method of Infestation: Chinchbugs are present year round. In Northern Florida, adults may hibernate during the winter months. But in Southern Florida, the adults are present and reproducing year round. When there is a good infestation, a visual inspection will reveal the insects. This is accomplished by parting the grass blades and looking towards the soil. The insects will be seen scurrying for cover.
Management: First, an inspection of the St. Augustine lawn should be performed. Chinchbugs can be seen if the lawn is infested. A professional pest control technician can perform a treatment of the lawn with the approved insecticides. Pets and people should remain off the treated area until it is dry.