>
> >I would ask the question....absent further research *at this point*, does
> it make sense to supplement zinc and possibly other nutrients to bees?  If
> so, how?


Trace metal supplementation, from what I hear, is commonly practiced in
some Eastern European countries.  Does anyone know of any published studies
in which controlled trials have been run?

This has been on my "to do" list for several years.  I long ago downloaded
trace element soil maps from USGS in order to see which areas of the US
that  bee forage would likely be lacking in critical elements.

Field trials would need to have test and control groups, accurately
assessed for at least strength at at least start and end point.  Nosema
counts might also be informative.

One must be careful with dosages, since even a slight excess of some trace
elements can be harmful.

--
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com

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