>>> Is there a concise definition of "regressed bees"? > > Sorry, Allen. I guess I am guilty again of using terms that show up on > Bee-L but are not in frequent use here or elsewhere Well, the term has been bandied about a lot, but, AFAIK, it has no clear definition or well -understood meaning. Many of us tolerate its use for sake of discussion, hoping to get a handle on it, but find it rather vague and magical. It's sorta a "You know what I mean", kinda thing. You know? You take some bees and shake them onto small cell foundation, and, if they draw it out, they are regressed? Or Not? Dunno? Where does the process begin? Where does it end? Is it permanent? If so, what is the mechanism? Genetic selection? Nutrition? Learning? An unknown effect? Magic? Are there any controlled studies on the topic? We've attempted in the past (years ago?) tried to get an understanding of it here on BEE-L, but never did, so we let it go by, but not without an occasional questioning to remind everyone that the term has no real status, here, at least -- and among the scientific community AFAIK, but we are listening... allen People who have no weaknesses are terrible; there is no way of taking advantage of them. -- Anatole France, The Crime of Sylvestre Bonnard -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and other info ---