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

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dc.contributor.authorMasika, Fred Bwayo
dc.contributor.authorOtuba, Amugoli Moses
dc.contributor.authorKesawat, Mahipal Singh
dc.contributor.authorAsiimwe, Alex
dc.contributor.authorBaguma, Bidget
dc.contributor.authorAlicai, Titus
dc.contributor.authorManohar, Swati
dc.contributor.authorDdamulira, Gabriel
dc.date.accessioned2026-03-10T07:45:49Z
dc.date.available2026-03-10T07:45:49Z
dc.date.issued2026-02-04
dc.descriptionThis study investigates how seasonal patterns and local environments shape populations of the oil palm pollinator Elaeidobius kamerunicus in Uganda. By highlighting the direct link between pollinator abundance, effective pollination, and oil palm yields, the research underscores the importance of biodiversity for sustainable agriculture. The findings offer practical guidance for enhancing crop productivity and environmental stewardship, supporting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). This work also aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV priorities for agro-industrialization and rural livelihoods.
dc.description.abstractOil 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 agroecological regions.
dc.identifier.citationMasika, F. B., Otuba, A. M., Kesawat, M. S., Asiimwe, A., Baguma, B., Alicai, T., ... & Ddamulira, G. (2026). Seasonal dynamics of Elaeidobius Kamerunicus in allopatric populations: comparative analysis from indigenous mainland and introduced oil palm ecosystems in Uganda’s lake Victoria islands. All Life, 19(1), 2625530.
dc.identifier.issn689-5307
dc.identifier.urihttps://dir.muni.ac.ug/handle/20.500.12260/937
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherTaylor & Francis
dc.subjectOil palm
dc.subjectPollination efficiency
dc.subjectElaeidobius
dc.subjectKamerunicus
dc.subjectSeasonal variation
dc.subjectUganda
dc.titleSeasonal dynamics of Elaeidobius Kamerunicus in allopatric populations: comparative analysis from indigenous mainland and introduced oil palm ecosystems in Uganda’s lake Victoria islands
dc.typeArticle

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