Dave:
It is the implication that an 'improved' bee is deficient in some other ways
 that brings about the polarisation that is being talked of. It is also
 important in breeding to ensure that the trait being bred for is naturally
 propagated and does not need to be re-created on a regular basis by 'special
 techniques'.

I agree with point number one. While so-called improved types are often good
in some areas and poor in others, it is not necessarily so. For example,
breeders created excellent work dogs for centuries. Overly inbred types come
about when certain traits are selected without regard for health and vigor.

Unfortunately, it has been my experience that part two of the point is a
problem. For example, one grafts a certain type of apple onto hardy
rootstocks, but realizes that the seeds of the apple will probably not
produce a good apple. I am afraid that the qualities obtained by breeding
bees need to be maintained and cannot be expected to be self-propagating. I
think there is a tendency to revert to generic types.

pb

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