In a message dated 18/06/02 05:01:48 GMT Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< : capensis traits found in Arizona feral colonies >>

You can sometimes arrive at the same destination by more than one path.  In
genetic terms it is called convergent evolution.  This might be one
explanation for the Capensis traits reported in Arizona bees.

It is many years now since I read the Aebi book, Mastering the Art of
Beekeeping, but remember that he reported it happening as a rare event in
Italian bees.  Possibly, and it could be more likely, Capensis behavior is
available as a recessive trait among Apis mellifera generally but has been
selected for naturally in the sub species Apis mellifera capensis and
artificially in Apis mellifera lusbiensis.

Chris