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Date: | Fri, 24 Mar 2023 08:28:42 -0400 |
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The "mistake" of so-called "strong colonies" mentioned before and immediately dismissed is likely the classic error of confusing population numbers with health.
Anyone running carnis and their various hybrids for the first time has seen the scary-looking grapefruit-sized cluster of bees in mid-winter, and had a sinking feeling in their stomach, only to watch that tiny cluster of bees expand into a powerhouse the moment that spring pollen patties and feed are slapped on.
In contrast, if one has a typical colony of generic Italians and their various hybrids, they keep raising brood to the first snowfall and beyond, eat all the "fall stores" by late November, and proceed to eat the beekeeper's profits all winter long, risking starvation at every turn.
Assuming both enjoy the same level of health, one can see that mere quantity of bees is misleading, as it is the unique qualitative differences that matter here. One simply cannot generalize with a broad statement like "colonies with large populations have a better chance of survival", as that statement is a surrender to the specific quirks of the Italian lines.
I don't expect my Volvo wagon to handle like my MG midget, and there simply is no rear swaybar or suspension upgrade that can make a 3500 lb, 190-inch long wagon corner as tightly as a 700 lb, 137-inch long sports car. Some things are more accurately left without comparison. That said, both Apple and Orange are in the cellphone business.
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