Gavin said "I hadn't heard that someone wanted to sequence the bee genome,
but if they do, and if they will permit wide use of that information, I
applaud it."

Hear, hear.

There is at least one annual recurring multi-million dollar effort going on
in the US that is focusing on the honeybee's nervous system.  I suspect
there is at least one additional similar project, and I know for certain
that presumably-qualified researchers are trying to get support for still
more.  These efforts have already led to GM honeybees; albeit on a small
scale.

As anyone knows who has read Seeley's The Wisdom of the Hive, these animals
we love and respect are truly remarkable.  I have no doubt that their
continued study will make life more comfortable (if not more meaningful) for
humans and a better understanding of their genetic makeup will almost
certainly be a critical part of these efforts.

Lloyd
Mailto:[log in to unmask]
Lloyd Spear Owner, Ross Rounds, Inc.  The finest in comb honey production.
Visit our web site at http://www.rossrounds.com.