A SURVEY OF INSECTS ASSOCIATED WITH CALOTROPIS PROCERA (AITON) W.T. AITON (FAMILY: APOCYNACEAE; ORDER: GENTIANALES; COMMON NAME: SODOM APPLE) WITHIN UDUS CAMPUS

Abstract

Diversity and ecological roles of insects associated with Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T. Aiton, commonly known as Sodom Apple within the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) campus were studied. Three locations within the UDUS campus; Veterinary Department (VET Building), Gidan Yunfa Area, and Behind Stadium Area were selected for the study. Field observations and sampling were conducted using sweep nets, pitfall traps, and direct hand collection to identify insect species visiting or inhabiting C. procera. Findings revealed a total of eleven insect species representing different ecological groups, including pollinators, herbivores, predators, and shelter-seekers. The honey bee (Apis mellifera) recorded the highest frequency of occurrence across all sites, followed by Rhabdotis obrina, Forficula auricularia, and Tettigonia viridissima, while Camponotus species were the least frequent. The observed insects performed various activities such as feeding, pollination, sheltering, and predation at different times of the day. The dominance of pollinators such as A. mellifera indicates that C. procera plays a vital role in sustaining pollinator populations and maintaining ecological balance within the semi-arid environment. The results indicate that the area supports a rich mix of pollinators, herbivores, and predators. The high presence of Dysdercus angulatus (red cotton bug) reflects the plant’s susceptibility to sap-sucking insects. The abundance of Forficula auricularia (earwig) suggests that C. procera provides ideal sheltering and breeding sites. The study concludes that Calotropis procera supports a rich and functionally diverse insect community, emphasizing its ecological importance in biodiversity conservation. It recommends the conservation of native plants like C. procera, increased awareness of their environmental value, and further research on seasonal insect dynamics to enhance ecosystem management strategies in northern Nigeria.