A Scandinavian study reported in the September 2005 issue of Bee Culture, in
the article "Commercial Beekeeping in Norway" by HansOtto Johnsen tested 20
colonies with 5.4mm cell size against 20 with 4.9mm in the same apiary. At
the end of the test the small cell group had significantly fewer varroa
mites and produced significantly more honey.

On the other hand a study carried out by Hort Research for the South
Canterbury branch of the New Zealand National Beekeepers' Association, using
four different cell sizes (4.7, 4.8, 5.1 and 5.4mm) reported in the Scottish
Beekeeper September 2005, concluded that:

"Varroa reproduction was not affected by cell size ..." and "these results
suggest cells smaller than 5.4mm may actually increase [varroa] infestation."

Interestingly this study measured the actual sizes of built-out cells, which
turned out to be not necessarily the same as the cell size of the foundation
supplied to the bees.

www.beedata.com/apis-uk/newsletters05/apis-uk0905.htm

-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and  other info ---