>Evaporation depends on temperature. The weak colonies are cooler and
evaporation is slower.

Interesting point, Ari, but not sure that it applies in this case.

I can understand that this would be the case in which thymol crystals were
placed under the cover, where the temp varies greatly.  However, I am
intentionally placing the Apiguard gel within the actual broodnest cluster,
in which the temperature is relatively constant.

The second thing to consider, is the the gel is designed to be physically
carried by the bees, along with the thymol-saturated shredded paper card,
out of the hive.  We find the aromatic shredded paper within a day or so
scattered about.  In the process, the bees ostensibly move the thymol, and
its fumes, throughout the colony.

A larger dose of gel in the center of the broodnest of a small colony might
simply overwhelm the bees' ability to circulate the fumes, and result in
excessive brood kill.

I'm going to have to observe more closely to see if your suggestion is
valid.

Thanks,
Randy Oliver

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