Which symptom is often a sign of Black turfgrass Ataenius infestation?

The presence of brown spots in the turf can be a clear indicator of a Black turfgrass Ataenius infestation. This pest primarily affects the roots of grass plants, causing damage that manifests in the form of brown patches or spots on the lawn. These brown areas occur due to the larvae feeding on the roots, which compromises the grass's ability to absorb water and nutrients, leading to dieback in those spots.

In contrast, while yellowing grass might indicate a variety of issues such as nutrient deficiencies or drought stress, it is not specifically associated with Black turfgrass Ataenius. Wilting leaves are more indicative of environmental stress or disease rather than pest infestation. The lack of growth can result from many factors, such as poor soil conditions, inadequate water, or other pest issues, but does not specifically point to the damage caused by Black turfgrass Ataenius. Brown spots, therefore, are the most direct symptom tied to this particular pest's feeding behavior and the resulting damage to the grass roots.