> > I know that in New Zealand the beekeepers use paraffin wax to sterilize
> > hive parts from colonies infected with AFB.
 
As far as I know, being treated with melted wax - whether paraffin as
discussed or in melting beeswax for foundation manufacture -- seems to
lower the viability of AFB spores tot he extent - depending on
temperatures involved - that although they may in some cases still able
to be cultured, they are not any threat in the hive.
 
I personally like to imagine that their little holes that allow air and
water to penetrate get plugged with wax, effectively weakening their
ability to germinate.
 
Allen
 
W. Allen Dick, Beekeeper                        VE6CFK
Rural Route One   Swalwell   Alberta   Canada  T0M 1Y0
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Futures, Art & Honey:http://www.cuug.ab.ca:8001/~dicka