...why
> not make them bigger? Bigger IS better, for a lot of
> things. 

This is NOT true when talking within a single species.
 Any gains would likely be mitigated by shorter life
and productivity of the organism,  and in honeybees
longevity is very important.   Longevity will result
in more bee population and productivity of the colony
and subsequent better wintering.    

According to Dr. Sell in a Jan. 1, 2006 CBS news
story:
 "The Quest For Immortality"

"Small seems to live longer, within your own species.
Across species, small is shorter. Mice live shorter
than elephants," says Sell. "But within mice, the
smaller mice seem to live longer. Within dogs, smaller
dogs live longer." 

> Bigger bees COULD make more honey,,,

This is not necessarily true.  Baring bad genetics,
poor health etc.  the productivity of a honeybee
colony is all about strength in numbers. Yes, big bees
carry a larger pay load, but the more numbers of
smaller bees as a result of more laying space and
longevity will be better able to provide the work
force needed to carry out more nectar processing
chores within the colony, drying, fanning, capping
etc.    

defend themselves
> better, winter better,
> etc.

Here again, strength in numbers is important to mount
a successful attack (refrence Napoleon).

Best Wishes,

JW 

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
http://mail.yahoo.com 

-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and  other info ---