Which insect is known for its cutting and lapping feeding method and is classified as a pest?

The correct choice is the Horn Fly, which is identified for its cutting and lapping feeding method. Horn Flies are pests that primarily affect cattle, as they feed on the blood of their hosts. Their specialized mouthparts allow them to cut into the skin of the animal and lap up the blood, which can lead to significant discomfort for the livestock, reduced milk production in dairy cows, and overall stress to the animals.

In contrast, the House Fly is primarily known for its sponging mouthparts, which enable it to feed on liquids. Horse Flies also have cutting mouthparts but are less frequently categorized as common pests in the same context as the Horn Fly due to their different feeding habits and habitat preferences. Hellgrammites, on the other hand, are aquatic larvae of a type of mayfly and do not fall under the category of pests related to livestock in the same manner as the Horn Fly.

This understanding of the Horn Fly's feeding method and its implications on cattle management is crucial for effective pest control strategies in the agricultural sector.