>
>
> >I've read that the use of OTC will damage the natural gut flora of the
> winter bees.
>
Several of the gut bacteria in commercial operations appear to have
developed some resistance to OTC. Other research indicates harm from
treatment. A study in Calif at UC Davis found no adverse effect from
antibiotic treatment upon colony growth. Take your pick!
>
> >EFB only affects uncapped brood, so assuming the winter bees can be
> formed without EFB, the broodless period from mid October through January
> should render the fall EFB treatment unnecessary.
EFB is normally a springtime disease. So your statement above is certainly
biologically plausible. I myself wouldn't be tempted to do a fall
treatment.
--
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com
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