An encysted nymph varies from 0.5 to 2.0 mm in diameter. Ground pearls are potentially serious problems in both southeastern and southwestern states. The damage is most apparent during dry spells when irregularly shaped patches of grass turn yellow. The grass in these spots eventually turns brown and usually dies by fall. Overwintering takes place in the ground pearl stage.
Females usually reach maturity in late spring and emerge from their cysts.
After a brief period of mobility, the wingless females settle 5 to 7.5 cm deep in the soil and secrete a waxy coat. Approximately 100 eggs are laid by each female. The slender nymphs emerge in mid-summer and infest grass rootlets. Once they initiate feeding, nymphs soon develop the familiar globular appearance. There is usually one generation each year.