> My understanding is that Stryofoam equipment is tight fitting, and
> obviously already insulated.

My understanding is that people usually paint them and, from what I have
seen, a dark color.  (I had hoped Mats and/or Murray might jump in
here).

> 1)  The color of the test/control groups should be the same.

Well, two different sytems were under (a rather casual) test, and the
idea was to use them each in the way that the originators use them, not
to try to impose parts of one system on another system.  I've been
assured that (most?) users of styro hives do not use top entrances;
there is a mesh hole in the floor to provide the necessary ventilation.

> 2)  Upper/lower entrances (ventilation methods) on both groups should
> be identical.

Only if comparing the boxes only, not to compare the systems.

> Obviously, the more variables we can remove, the better the final
> data.

The end results of two sets of variables (systems) were actaully what
were being compared.

The only factors that I feel might have been uncontrolled or
inconsistent with the proper method, were:

1.)  a. Disturbing one group, and not the other, late in fall and
      b. not allowing the bees time before winter to adapt to the new
hive space.
2.)  Not painting the plastic boxes
3.)  Using our pillows under the lids
4.)  Perhaps the hive volume in two standard boxes is greater than some
use in wintering styro hives.

allen
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/

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