Response of banana hybrids to the banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus Germar) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Uganda

Abstract

Banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) is one of the major constraints to banana production in Uganda. A field screening experimentwas undertaken at Kawanda to determine the response of 18 hybrids to the banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar).Based on total cross-sectional damage, results indicated that there was improved resistance to banana weevil in the hybrids tested. Damage scores for all the tested hybrids were significantly different from the susceptible check (Atwalira). Except M4, M5, M6 and M8, the rest of the hybrids showed significant difference from the resistant cultivar (Yangambi KM 5). Data on mat disappearance showed that hybrids were more stable than the susceptible check, while findings from weevil trap catches suggested no relationship between attraction and weevil damage. Resultsshowed that some hybrids have superior agronomic and yield characteristics, however due to high weevil infestation, the findings of the study were not representative of maximum yield potential that may be achieved under good management practices.