What is one of the severe corn pests categorized under rootworms?

Western rootworms are classified as a significant pest of corn, specifically affecting the plant's root system. This pest is known for its larvae, which feed on the roots of corn plants, leading to stunted growth, reduced nutrient uptake, and increased susceptibility to lodging and other plant stresses. The damage caused by western rootworms can result in substantial yield losses, making them a primary concern for corn producers.

In contrast, the other pests listed, such as the corn earworm, fall armyworm, and European corn borer, target different parts of the corn plant or have different feeding behaviors. The corn earworm primarily damages corn ears and kernels, while the fall armyworm can affect various crops but not specifically categorized under root pests. The European corn borer targets the stalk and can lead to similar issues, but it does not focus its damage on the root system like the western rootworm does. Thus, western rootworms are specifically recognized and categorized as severe pests under the rootworm group.