Chris wrote:
>... the action of propolis in combatting bacteria was different to that
> of the usual antibiotics in that it didn't kill the bugs but enveloped 
> them,
> preventing reproduction.
> If this is the case then the same mode of action might be effective 
> against
> Nosema spores.

Perhaps more work is needed here?

Anecdotal observation:
Over the past two or three years we have been working hard to replace our 
mongrel stocks with A.m.m.  Still plenty of work to do, but we are making 
good progress.  The level of propolis use in our colonies has increased 
significantly.  Last year I tested a number of batches of adult bees for 
nosema - but could not find a single spore.  This is in contrast with the 
situation previously when spores could be found easily.

Best wishes
Peter Edwards
beekeepers at stratford-upon-avon.freeserve.co.uk
www.stratford-upon-avon.freeserve.co.uk/

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