Georgia Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

What category do billbugs belong to with regards to their habitat?

1. Underground pests

2. Aerial pests

3. Surface-feeding pests

4. Above-ground pests

The correct answer is: Underground pests

Billbugs are classified as underground pests primarily because their life cycle involves stages that are often spent in or very near the soil. These pests are the larvae of certain types of weevils, and they primarily thrive in the root zones of grasses and other plants, where they can feed on the plant tissue and create damage. While some categories focus on whether pests are found above or on the surface, billbugs primarily operate below the surface, making their impact more critical in the underground ecosystem. They burrow into the soil and feed on the plant roots, which can lead to significant plant stress and potential death. Understanding this aspect of billbug behavior is crucial for effective pest management and control strategies.