> My understanding is that defensiveness is a complex trait Agreed. It's also what's called a "poly-genic" trait, one which is controlled by many different "genes." However, acute sensitivity in any one of the traits could lead to hyper-defensive bees. For example, overproduction of venom, leading to colony being alarmed more quickly, or hypersensitivity to odor, same effect. PLB *********************************************** 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