> it can only adapt by adding genes or subtracting them. 

I am sorry, this may be figurative language, but it is misleading at best. Traits may be intensified or suppressed, but no genes are ever added or subtracted.

By the way, nobody has even identified any "genes" for particular behaviors. Most traits are formed by distinct combinations of genetic sequences.

But more importantly, while little is known about epigenetic inheritance, it is very likely that immune functions are transmitted from the adults to the newborn bees.

Further, it may be possible to transmit these immune functions (beneficial bacteria, for example) from colony to colony via divisions. This may be one factor in why Charlie Mraz's technique is favorable to colony health. 

The principle is to make new colonies from the best, regardless of whether the trait is transmitted through the queen or through the bees themselves.

PLB

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