In a recent mailing about AFB it was pointed out that AFB spore levels 
seem to be far lower in honey from Africa and the suggestion was made 
that this might be due to greater hygienic behaviour as well as other 
factors.  One that was not mentioned: Greater Wax Moth, the beekeeper's 
friend, occurred to me and I ran the idea past a Nigerian friend who 
has kept bees both there and here.

Here's the exchange of mails:
Hi Bisi, Could wax moths (the beekeeper's friend) be a factor in 
reducing AFB prevalence in Africa?  We have had Greater Wax Moths here 
in numbers only for about 20 years so I am guessing that they are more 
common in warmer climes.  Is that so?  Harvesting of combs in TBHs 
rather than re-using combs as we do in hives with frames might also 
help. What do you think?

Her reply:
Yes, GWM are a significant pest in nigeria. Far more common than here. 
But as you observe, they render wax very efficiently. And coupled with 
the building of natural comb fresh, new, clean etc) in TBHs and the 
rendering of wax, in my humble and unscientific opinion would indeed 
have an impact on AFB. But also, it may be more complext matrix of 
circumstances that keep AFB at bay. The reasons listed in the email 
below yours such as genetic factors (absconding behaviour due to 
external or internal stimuli, hygenic grooming behaviours etc) all seem 
plausible......



Chris

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