>I would venture that what most are really talking about is a weakened 
bee, not an immune system…”

Perhaps, a weakened bee, IS a weaken immune system, as most of the bees 
immunity to disease is weighted on the behavioral side, stresses which 
weaken the bee are known to affect a colonies abilities on many levels.

The honeybee genome project has revealed fewer genes for honey bee 
immunity to disease, this, they theorize it is because they are simply not 
needed, being compensated by enhanced behavioral traits such as hygienic 
behavior and propolis, brood rearing etc.

Therefore, when talking about the bees immune system, it MUST always be 
with the inclusion of pest and disease suppressing traits at the colony 
level, as well as immunity at the individual bee level. Subsequently, 
stress weakening the bee, will also weaken the bees immunity.  

Best Wishes,
Joe 
feralbeeproject.com 

****************************************************
* General Information About BEE-L is available at: *
* http://www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l/default.htm   *
****************************************************