In a message dated 05/12/01 05:29:02 GMT Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:
<< powdered sugar was dusted
over the top of the frames to cause the mites to lose their grip on the
bees and drop. I don't recall any statistical studies but would love to
hear if this technique has been studied as a periodic treatment in
combination with the open mesh floors. >>
The hive headed by my queen #54 dropped 2 mites in the 24 hours ending 8.
Sept. The same hive dropped 46 mites in the 24 hours ending 4 Nov. At the
beginning of the 24 hour period ending 11 Nov I poured powdered sugar
liberally on each seam of bees. The drop was 39 mites.
You can't dump a promising theory on the basis of 1 test on 1 hive, but it
doesn't inspire confidence.
Chris