OIL PALM WEEVIL POLLINATION REVISITED

The weevils, Elaeidobius kamerunicus arrived in Southeast Asia from Cameroon over 30 years ago. Consequently, oil palm pollination has improved greatly resulting in a quantum jump in FFB yield. However, despite the presence of the weevil, there has been occurrence of poor fruit set in Malaysia and Indonesia on both newly matured and older palms in recent years causing major economic set back. The behaviour of E. kamerunicus in time and space was examined to uncover further research to restore the potential productivity of the oil palm. Existing information on other pollination insects are reviewed to facilitate a second introduction of pollination insects if necessary. Keywords: Elaeidobius kamerunicus, weevils, pollination, fruit set.