Flea beetles

Though rarely mentioned in the turf literature, flea beetles (Family Chrysomelidae) occasionally cause significant damage on cool season turf. The information below is derived mostly from experiences with flea beetles on other crops in the grass family, but should apply to turf as well.

Life cycle:

Adult flea beetles are small, shiny, dark colored beetles that jump when disturbed. They damage plants by chewing small holes or pits, frequently referred to as "shotholes" in foliage, producing turf foliage that initially…