Re: EFB and tylosin * I had also heard that tylosin was not effective against EFB. There is obviously some basis for this notion, although the following seems to imply that it simply hasn't been *proven* effective. > Feed colonies fumagillin in spring to prevent extra stress from nosema infections. If treating EFB, use terramycin—not tylosin (Tylan). Terramycin is known to work well, while tylosin has not been proven to control EFB. When treating varroa mites, use “soft” chemicals such as Apiguard, Apilife VAR, or MiteAway II. Do not use oxalic acid or other “hard” chemicals, such as fluvalinate, coumaphos, or amitraz, which may further stress the bees. * I found this of interest, particularly since the NYS inspectors are going about telling folks that they will condemn an entire colony to burning upon finding even one cell of AFB. > The current practice for AFB-infected beehives is to remove and destroy any comb with AFB symptoms (by burning or burying them) and to treat the colony with terramycin. Samples of diseased larvae are tested for AFB resistance to tetracycline, and, if found, tylosin (Tylan) can be used to treat the colony. Colonies are usually destroyed and burned only in cases of heavy infestation and low bee populations. * Thinking: Maybe it is time to rewrite the outmoded laws on the books! -- SOURCE: PEST MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR HONEY BEES IN THE MID-ATLANTIC STATES SOUTHERN REGION IPM CENTER, VIRGINIA TECH, NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY, MAAREC, 2008 *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html