> Perhaps we should use the scientific term "diutinus" bees (meaning > long-lived). Bees can go into this state either in winter, or during any > time of dearth or stress. It appears to be a survival mechanism which > allows for extended lifespan when forage is cut off. It appears that calorie restriction extends life expectancy. Research on a number of species indicate that a 30% decrease in intake has an effect. I don't know that honeybees have been included, but other insects have. It would seem to be a survival tactic that would come into play each fall when forage falls off giving the longer lifespan to the winter bees. If the October/November bees had the six-week lifespan of a June bee, we would all be out of business. The bees would have disappeared long ago. Larry Krengel Marengo, IL *********************************************** 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