“In short, the more "W-drones," the shorter the effective generational 
interval, and the smaller the genetic population size--both negative 
consequences.”

Randy, can you explain what is meant by “effective generational interval” 
and how having worker laid drones would cause a reduction in it?  Also, how 
does the level of “W-drones” affect a reduction in “genetic population 
size”?  And again, how common is it that workers lay eggs in a “normal” 
hive, and what would cause them to lay eggs other than the abnormal 
situation of not having a queen for an extended period of time?  In other 
words what would be the incentive?  What would be the advantage 
in “cheating” in the first place? Also, can anyone tell me what the chances 
are of worker laid drones passing on their genes are?  Because either these 
drones are removed because they can pass on their genes or because they 
can't.  Does the evidence suggest that worker laid drones effectively serve 
as a last ditch way for a bee chromosome to make another bee chromosome?  A 
lot of questions, I know.  I hope you are up to sorting some of this out 
for some of us.  As alway, thanks.  

Steve Noble

*******************************************************
* Search the BEE-L archives at:                       *
* http://listserv.albany.edu:8080/cgi-bin/wa?S1=bee-l *
*******************************************************