Hi Peter and Robert:

I don't think that the number of cells per inch or per square inch is the
parameter that is wanted in this discussion. The only measurements which
might affect the development of  the new bee are the depth and cross
sectional area of the chamber. These measurements will vary with the age of
the comb as cocoons build up and are removed and with the thickness of the
cell walls as built.

Of course, it is difficult to measure the actual dimensions. One way is to
first measure the depth with an accurate depth gauge such as a dial
indicator. The volume of the cell can be measured by filling it with water
from a burette. The cross sectional area can then be found by calculation.

It was mentioned on the list that varroa seemed less troublesome in old
combs and this might be due to the reduced size of the cells in the old
comb.

                                    Best regards

                                    Donald Aitken
----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Brenchley" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2002 7:00 AM
Subject: Re: Up-sizing?


> Peter Borst writes:
>
> <<When someone says 5 cells to the inch, what is the level of accuracy?