Predation on Sod Webworm (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Eggs as Affected by Chlorpyrifos Application to Kentucky Bluegrass Turf

Predators consumed or carried off up to 75% of sod webworm (Crambus and Pediasia spp.) eggs within 48 h of exposure in turf grass. One application of chlorpyrifos applied to Kentucky bluegrass turf reduced the predator-induced mortality of sod webworm eggs for at least 3 weeks after treatment. As evidenced by pitfall traps, the insecticide simultaneously reduced the number of ants and spiders moving through the turf. The ant Pheidole tysoni Forel, together with three other species of ants and a mite, Macrocheles sp., foraged on sod webworm eggs in turf. Four species of mites, five species of Carabidae, five species of Staphylinidae, and two other insect species fed on sod webworm eggs in the laboratory.