> > >These colonies are rejected as cell builders and returned to honey/pollen > production at which they perform as well as any other. Peter, I see exactly the same thing, and have the same question. I'm currently trying to get funding for a study that I have proposed. I have a researcher lined up who can do deep sequencing of all endosymbiotic bacteria in a bee. I'm heading out today to take samples from the two best, and two worst performing colonies in each yard. I'm curious to see whether there is a consistent correlation between gut endosymbiont structure and productivity. if so, then an inoculum could be developed to feed to each package or nuc. Randy Oliver Grass Valley, CA www.ScientificBeekeeping.com *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html Guidelines for posting to BEE-L can be found at: http://honeybeeworld.com/bee-l/guidelines.htm