> >Their reasoning was that because the original packaging was not sealed in an
> >airtight package  the fluvinate dried up and lost effectiveness.

> I don't think that this is borne out by the experience of the majority. I
> think you may have fluvalinate resistant mites.


I wonder if a simple experiment would work to test the mites for
resistance. Take a strip and "bend" it around the inside of a large mason
jar so that if forms a ring around the inside of the jar. Punch a few
holes in the lid for air (ever wonder what a entrance feeder could be good
for? :)

Put in a little candy for food and then scoop up some bees in the same
manner you would for an ether roll. Instead of ether just put the lid on
and place the jar in a cool, dark place. 24-48(?) hours later release the
bees back to the hive and see how many dead mites are left in the jar.
Maybe before you release the bees a visual inspection for attached mites?

Any thoughts?