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Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology

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Subject:
From:
Aaron Morris <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 16 Jan 2002 13:43:55 -0500
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This topic is covered quite extensively n the archives, which can be
searched at:
http://listserv.albany.edu:8080/cgi-bin/wa?S1=bee-l

As far as brood rearing goes, once the frames are drawn the bees don't seem
to mind them at all.  This is based on my personal observations.  Some
beekeepers have reported problems getting the bees to draw from a plastic
midrib (either foundation or full plastic frame) but a few things help: a
strong colony in a good honey flow will draw plastic with no problems.  If
the plastic is coated with beeswax the bees will draw it more readily.  If
the honeyflow is not intense, feeding is a MUST!

There are personal preference issues.  I have never heard anyone say bad
things about the sheer convenience of all plastic frames.  Open the box, put
'em in the hive.  It doesn't get any easier than that.  Some beekeepers
(including myself) do not care for the feel of plastic.  I do not like how
the plastic frames bite at my fingers when I roll the frames over during
examination.  I far prefer the feel of wooden frames with plastic
foundation.  I also do not like how a full plastic frame torques.  And there
will always be the problem of toxic fumes if ever one must burn a plastic
frame (or wooden frames with plastic foundation for that matter).

Finally, current research is hinting that plastic frames and even plastic
foundation may not transmit vibrations as well as wax foundation.  This may
or may not be an issue as regards messages delivered during dance
communications.  Plastic dampens vibrations on the combs and if messages are
being delivered, they may not be coming through as loud and clear as they
might in a plastic-free environment.  I don't recall who is investigating
this issue, but I am positive I heard the concern raised in bee research
circles.

Aaron Morris - thinking plastics!  The wave of the future!  But I still
prefer wood.

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