> is it possible that increased hybridization and the resulting genetic diversity from it is contributing to the observation of feral populations who appear to be developing natural resistance?  

I don't know about the feral populations. Some attribute their apparent success to local adaptation. It may be isolation or reproductive barriers. Or it may be hybridization, as you say. 

However, it's clear that Brother Adam's goal and also the Weavers of Texas who bred Buckfast for years, is to produce a bee which combines traits. Danny Weaver states his bees are a combination of "all four lineages."

PLB 

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