It has been mentioned "ad infinitum" that eradication of AFB from colonies of honey bees and
associated equipment is not helped by the presence of so called "scale".
This "scale" material results from the remains of larvae that have died due to AFB infection.
Apart from being loaded with potential infective material, it is extremely difficult for the
inhabitants of the hive to remove it without destroying  the comb material.

So to the point of the mail:

What makes "scale" adhere to the comb material in such a tight manner?
Physical or chemical adhesion?
If a way was found to ease its removal without comb destruction, would not some of the techniques
used in controlling AFB have greater effectiveness?

Not really awaiting miracles, but thought that the question was worth posing!
Peter

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and  other info ---
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::