InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA — The Indonesian Oil Palm Research Institute (PPKS) has introduced three selected pollinating weevil species—Elaeidobius subvittatus, E. kamerunicus, and E. plagiatus—as part of efforts to enhance palm oil pollination efficiency.

Approximately 2,000 larvae and pupae of each species were imported from Tanzania on April 3, 2025, arriving at PPKS’ Marihat Insectarium under supervision of the Indonesian Quarantine Agency.

Initial incubation resulted in 1,704 adult E. subvittatus, 1,494 E. kamerunicus, and 1,359 E. plagiatus. Subsequent metagenomic testing at Gadjah Mada University confirmed species purity and absence of quarantine pathogens.

Host suitability tests showed the weevils were attracted exclusively to oil palm flowers, posing no risk as agricultural pests. Population growth has since increased 15-fold within three months, reaching approximately 85,000 individuals.

PPKS has engaged 22 companies in training programs on pollinator management, reinforcing sustainable productivity across Indonesia’s palm oil sector. (T2)

For more details, read InfoSAWIT Magazine, November 2025 edition.