Weed seed granivory by <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus</i> and its population dynamics in lowbush blueberry fields

Granivory can significantly contribute to weed seed bank depletion in agroecosystems, but its role in weed biocontrol within commercial lowbush blueberry ( Vaccinium angustifolium, Ericaceae) remains understudied. This research investigated the spatiotemporal activity and seed-feeding tendencies of Gryllus pennsylvanicus (Gryllidae), a common granivore in lowbush blueberry fields, to evaluate its weed biocontrol potential. Field and laboratory studies demonstrated that G. pennsylvanicus remained active for 14 weeks, with peak activity occurring in mid-August, aligning with the seed rain of economically significant weed species. Pitfall trap captures of G. pennsylvanicus showed no variation with distance from the field edge, indicating consistent activity across field interiors and margins. Laboratory trials showed that G. pennsylvanicus consumed seeds from nine weed species, with seed masses ranging from 0.057 to 1.9 mg. In additional laboratory experiments with hair fescue ( Festuca filiformis)—a pervasive grass that reduces yields and obstructs harvest in many lowbush blueberry operations—individual crickets consumed an average of 65.5 seeds per day. These findings suggest that G. pennsylvanicus may play a substantial role in reducing weed seed banks and contribute meaningfully to integrated weed management in commercial lowbush blueberry production systems.