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Chinch Bugs (Blissus leucopterus)
Chinch bugs are small insects that feed on turfgrass by sucking plant sap and injecting toxins, causing irregular patches of yellowing and dead grass that can spread rapidly in hot, dry weather. St. Augustine grass is particularly susceptible, but they attack a wide range of lawn grasses. Infestations can be mistaken for drought stress or disease, delaying treatment. Targeted insecticide applications to affected areas and borders, combined with proper watering and fertilization, provide effective management.