Hi Peter and Robert: I don't think that the number of cells per inch or per square inch is the parameter that is wanted in this discussion. The only measurements which might affect the development of the new bee are the depth and cross sectional area of the chamber. These measurements will vary with the age of the comb as cocoons build up and are removed and with the thickness of the cell walls as built. Of course, it is difficult to measure the actual dimensions. One way is to first measure the depth with an accurate depth gauge such as a dial indicator. The volume of the cell can be measured by filling it with water from a burette. The cross sectional area can then be found by calculation. It was mentioned on the list that varroa seemed less troublesome in old combs and this might be due to the reduced size of the cells in the old comb. Best regards Donald Aitken ----- Original Message ----- From: "Robert Brenchley" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Monday, February 25, 2002 7:00 AM Subject: Re: Up-sizing? > Peter Borst writes: > > <<When someone says 5 cells to the inch, what is the level of accuracy?