| "Burrowing Bug" in Turf | |
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A small (4-7mm), shining blue-black insect is abundant in gardens and turf right now (May, 1998). It is Sehirus cinctus, a member of the burrowing bug family. Unlike most burrowing bugs (some of which can be agricultural pests in crops grown in sandy soils), however, Sehirus cinctus lives its life aboveground, feeding on the developing seeds of mints and nettles. It is frequently seen feeding on henbit, a small mint plant and common weed in some lawns. Despite its sometime alarming numbers, this tiny bug is not harmful and will not affect the growth or development of flowers.
Michael Merchant, Extension Urban Entomologist |
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