Seasonal dynamics of Elaeidobius Kamerunicus in allopatric populations: comparative analysis from indigenous mainland and introduced oil palm ecosystems in Uganda’s lake Victoria islands

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis L.), native to Africa but widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, is increasingly grown in Uganda, and pollination efficiency is critical for fruit set and oil yield. The study assessed the population and sexual diversity of the primary pollinator, Elaeidobius kamerunicus FAUST, in introduced hybrid plantations in Kalangala and natural stands in Bundibugyo. Pollinator weevils were sampled across both wet and dry seasons in 2022 and 2023, and data were analyzed using ANOVA and correlation tests in Minitab 17. Results revealed significant variation between sites, with higher populations in Kalangala (7,503 ± 8.682) compared to Bundibugyo (5,164 ± 5.829). Furthermore, females (6,636 ± 4.646) outnumbered males (6,032 ± 5.028), with a slightly higher concentration of females in the middle section of male inflorescences. Seasonal differences were evident, as the wet season supported slightly higher weevil populations relative to the dry season. Correlation analysis indicated a weak negative relationship between weevil abundance and weather variables, suggesting that cooler conditions suppress population growth. Overall, Uganda provides favorable conditions for pollinator weevil multiplication, particularly under moist climatic regimes, while extensive cold conditions limit population expansion. These findings highlight the importance of pollinator dynamics in sustaining oil palm productivity in diverse agro-ecological regions.