>  to control a massive EFB/AFB outbreak, we found that colonies turned out
onto bare equipment in a nectar flow  not only drew out comb like
lightning, they went into a brood rearing frenzy, raising far more brood
than they would have left on their original combs

I've observed the same.  A strong AFB colony shook onto foundation early in
a strong flow can surpass fully-established colonies in a couple of
months.  I was amazed and have no explanation.

I agree that radioactive tracers are not a good idea!

>What prevents the manufacturer from using beeswax for the formed comb
rather than developing synthetic wax?

Beeswax wasn't strong enough, and there were problems with it.  At that
point, I would have simply dropped the project...
Our industry is based upon the perception of naturalness and purity.
Manufacturers and beekeepers should keep that in mind.
-- 
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com

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