Which life stage is referred to as "larvae" in the context of white grubs?

In the context of white grubs, the term "larvae" specifically refers to the immature form of certain insects that develop from eggs. White grubs, which are the larvae of scarab beetles, go through various life stages: egg, larval (or grub), pupal, and adult. The larval stage is crucial for the pest's development as they feed on organic matter, such as roots of grasses, which can cause significant damage to turf. This is why recognizing the larval stage is essential for pest management in turfgrass, allowing for timely interventions to minimize crop loss. Larvae are typically characterized by their C-shaped appearance and soft bodies, distinguishing them from the more hardened adult beetles and the pupa, which is an inactive stage. Understanding the characteristics and behaviors of larvae is key to effectively controlling white grub populations.