Pete, the latest evidence is that European bees (A. mellifera) evolved in
Africa, and moved into Europe via Morocco.  So I see no reason to suspect
that in the process they lost the genetic and epigenetic potential to
evolve resistance to varroa, as have at least some races of A mellifera in
Africa.


I have compiled a great deal of info on this topic in view of a future article on the origin of honey bees. There are three schools of thought: Asian origin, African origin and European origin, all backed up with a mountain of evidence. 

Be that as it may, the behaviors that have to do with varroa control in Apis mellifera are not in direct response to pressure from varroa, as A. m. is not its natural host. I see the tropical species as having a suite of behaviors that European bees lack, which may contribute to health and vigor, but detract from the tropical bees' amenability to general beekeeping practices. 

For example, when American researchers first worked with African bees they discovered they were practically useless for shaking packages. When the frames were removed the bees tended to rush off the combs and run down to the bottom of the hive, the exact opposite of what you want. Of course, this could be gotten around, but the point is, they are behaviorally distinct.

PLB

 

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