Randy quoted: "This study found evidence of prior hybridization between the 2 groups, based on the presence of a presumptive European mtDNA marker, although the population was *morphometrically indistinguishable* from African A m scutellata (Moritz and Meusel, 1991). A large-scale allozyme study also revealed that populations of this region express significant levels of European- derived introgression, although morphometrically they are quite "African" (Lobo et al, 1989)." So, as, evidently, African bees and their Afro-European hybrids can be distinguished morphometrically (and therefore inexpensively!) from European bees, why not use this as an objective test, rather than relying on relative 'stinginess'? There are very many factors that can may a hive appear 'stingy' , most of which have nothing to do with their race. Chris *********************************************** 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