How do wireworms impact crop yields?

Wireworms significantly impact crop yields primarily by feeding on seeds and roots. When wireworms infest the soil, they target the underground parts of plants, which are critical for nutrient uptake and overall plant health. The damage to seeds can lead to poor germination rates, and feeding on roots disrupts the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. This dual impact can result in stunted growth, reduced vigor, and ultimately lower crop yields.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary damage caused by wireworms. While leaves and photosynthesis are vital for plant growth, wireworms do not typically feed on foliage. The disruption of water absorption, although a consequence of root feeding, does not capture the root cause of yield loss, which is the direct feeding behavior of wireworms targeting the seeds and roots. Thus, the feeding action of wireworms is a key factor in their detrimental effect on crop yields.