For some time now I have been interested in tracheal
mite (and varroa) infestation, as most of us have.  Like
others, I have previously purchased putative resistant
packages, and I have already ordered an number of new
packages for the spring of so-called Tabor resistant bees,
plus some Yugo bees that are reputed to be resistant.
 
My question is simple:  Where is the evidence of
resistance?
 
I would very much appreciate anyone's telling me about
data that uphold the reputed claims to tracheal mite
resistance.  I assume that because I do not read all
of the insect/parasite/ecological journals that I have
missed the reports.  I am unfortunately afflicted with
a wealth of ignorance, so I would appreciate your
tolerance with my having missed the reports.
 
A number of companies now advertise resistant bees, and
a number of us are eager to accept the claims of
resistance.  But as a scientist, I am naturally
concerned about the data.
 
Are these companies that advertise/sell so-called resistant
bees obligated to backup their claims with scientific
reports?
 
Please don't get me wrong....with mites being the problem
that they are, I am as eager (as a hobbyist/researcher) to
grasp at straws as anyone else.  However, as a scientist,
I wonder about the extant evidence.
 
Can anyone provide some reference to published data?
 
Many thanks.
 
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John Batson                   ---------------       ------------
Psychology--Furman Univ.      BATSON@FRMNVAX1       803-294-3213
Greenville SC  29613          ---------------       ------------
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