The significant results of this research were: 1) A laboratory colony of H. bajulus was established and information on the N. A. biotype was collected. At this time it is too early to make any significant statements of comparison between European and N. A. biotypes. However, preliminary results indicate that the mean number of eggs per female, and the size and longevity of N. A. adults appear different than European beetles; 2) Outdoor survival studies of the larvae indicate that H. bajulus can live under natural conditions in Virginia's varied climatic regions. Over the course of two years 27 adults have been collected in such field conditions as fence posts, outhouses, screen windows, building exteriors, and free flying in open fields. This information, along with survival studies, strongly suggest the presence of natural populations; 3) The environment in which H bajulus larvae are located greatly affects its chances of survival. Larvae in attics can survive the fluctuating environmental condition, but growth and development are prolonged and potential structural damage minimal. Under these conditions H. bajulus larvae are more likely to undergo natural mortality over several years. In optimum (stable) conditions H. bajulus will increase their feeding and development. Under these conditions infestations that are left unchecked may lead to serious structural damage and reinfestations. / Master of Science

Turfgrass is subject to attack by a variety of insect pests. However, there has been no research on the sod webworm pests associated with turfgrass in Virginia and little research on habitat preferences of other insect pests of turf. The purpose of this research was to contribute to the basic knowledge of the biology of sod webworm species in Virginia. There are at least 16 sod webworm species found to occur in Virginia; all can be identified to species level by forewing color patterns. The species complex is distributed nearly evenly throughout Virginia with some species adapted to higher elevations (700m). The species complex is present from spring to late fall. The number of generations and peak flight periods differ depending on the species. Most species were sampled in low numbers except Parapediasia teterrella (Zincken). Accumulated degree-days can predict an additional years worth of occurrence of Microcrambus elegans (Clemens), Crambus lagueatellus Clemens, Pediasia trisecta (Walker) , and Agriphila ruricolella (Zeller), in the Appalachian region of Virginia. Behavior patterns of P. teterrella. M. elegans, and A. ruricolella adults indicate the utilization of shrubs instead of turfgrass as resting sites during the day. In addition, 10 species of 7 families of insects were found to inhabit tall fescue, ryegrass, and bluegrass in Virginia. / Master of Science