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Date: | Tue, 27 Aug 2013 17:44:30 -0400 |
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In a recent mailing about AFB it was pointed out that AFB spore levels
seem to be far lower in honey from Africa and the suggestion was made
that this might be due to greater hygienic behaviour as well as other
factors. One that was not mentioned: Greater Wax Moth, the beekeeper's
friend, occurred to me and I ran the idea past a Nigerian friend who
has kept bees both there and here.
Here's the exchange of mails:
Hi Bisi, Could wax moths (the beekeeper's friend) be a factor in
reducing AFB prevalence in Africa? We have had Greater Wax Moths here
in numbers only for about 20 years so I am guessing that they are more
common in warmer climes. Is that so? Harvesting of combs in TBHs
rather than re-using combs as we do in hives with frames might also
help. What do you think?
Her reply:
Yes, GWM are a significant pest in nigeria. Far more common than here.
But as you observe, they render wax very efficiently. And coupled with
the building of natural comb fresh, new, clean etc) in TBHs and the
rendering of wax, in my humble and unscientific opinion would indeed
have an impact on AFB. But also, it may be more complext matrix of
circumstances that keep AFB at bay. The reasons listed in the email
below yours such as genetic factors (absconding behaviour due to
external or internal stimuli, hygenic grooming behaviours etc) all seem
plausible......
Chris
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