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Date: | Wed, 20 Nov 2013 15:12:05 -0800 |
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> It appears that you believe that all feral stock in Los Angeles is "AHB", as in, those bees that kill horses and dogs? This is a misconception held and promoted by many in the east and Midwest who have no first hand experience with ferals.
In 2012 I saw a presentation from Dr. Ernesto Guzman on the spread of AHB, and he described the reproductive strategies of AHB observed in Mexico:
(From my notes:)
- Traits are not diluting as previously hoped.
- AHB Queens suppress non-AHB drones, giving a preference to AHB genetics. (Notes do not describe mechanism)
- Frequent absconding, and frequent usurpation of EHB colonies.
- They gather less honey but instead divert energy into reproduction - They gather more pollen and raise more brood than EHB.
- Higher drone production, to the point of area-saturation.
I recall being left with the impression of a chilling and borg-like reproductive strategy that left no stone unturned, and no opportunity unexploited.
In a non-temperate climate, it seems plausible that AHB would quickly displace unmanaged EHB.
It has been mentioned many times before, but also bears repeating: AHB temperment can vary based on circumstances, and lack of "killing horses and dogs" doesn't necessarily mean they aren't AHB.
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