Factors Affecting Pollination and Pollinators in Oil Palm Plantations: A Review with an Emphasis on the Elaeidobius kamerunicus Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Pollination plays a major role in oil palm yield. Oil palm inflorescences emit an anise-like scent that draws pollinators to alternate between male and female inflorescences, transferring the dusted pollens at once, which leads to fruit formation. Forthright as it may sound, however, its efficiency is determined multifactorially. This review examines both abiotic and biotic factors that may influence pollination and pollinators in oil palm plantations, with particular attention given to the pollinating weevil, Elaeidobius kamerunicus. As primary pollinators that rely on oil palm male inflorescences for food and breeding, the unique traits that contribute to their success are also explored. However, their population size and pollinating efficiency can be influenced by various factors, such as weather, palm varieties, soil types, and pollen quality and quantity. Other factors that can impact their success include the presence of parasitic nematodes and predators, insecticide application, weevil endogamy, and the proximity of palms to natural forests. Finally, research gaps and recommendations are discussed. ABSTRACT: Pollination is crucial for oil palm yield, and its efficiency is influenced by multiple factors, including the effectiveness of Elaeidobius kamerunicus weevils as pollinators in Southeast Asia. Weevils transfer pollen between male and female flowers, leading to successful fertilization and fruit development, which contributes to higher oil palm yields and increased production of valuable oil. Understanding and conserving the weevil population is important for sustainable oil palm cultivation practices. The interaction between pollinators, including weevils, and environmental factors is complex, involving aspects such as pollinator behavior, abundance, diversity, and effectiveness, which are influenced by weather, landscape composition, and pesticide use. Understanding these interactions is critical for promoting sustainable pollination practices, including effective pest management and maintaining optimal pollinator populations. This review discusses various abiotic and biotic factors that affect pollination and pollinators in oil palm plantations, with a particular focus on weevils as primary pollinators. Factors such as rainfall, humidity, oil palm species, temperature, endogamy, parasitic nematodes, insecticides, predators, and proximity to natural forests can impact the weevil population. Further research is recommended to fill knowledge gaps and promote sustainable pollination practices in the oil palm industry.