256 AUSTRALASIAN 



CHAPTER XVI. 



DISEASES OF BEES. 



Until quite recently it had been generally supposed that bees 

 were subject to two diseases only, viz., dysentery, and what was 

 termed " foul brood." The scientific investigations of Mr. 

 Frank Cheshire, however, — which are still being carried out — 

 point to the existence of other diseases, and there is good 

 reason to believe that when he shall have finished his re- 

 searches, many things connected with apiculture which are now 

 inexplicable will- be made clear. 



The former of the two diseases mentioned is a very common 

 and often a dangerous one in cold climates, but in Australasia it 

 is not very troublesome and rarely dangerous. The latter, 

 foul brood (now generally known by the scientific name of 

 bacillus alvei), is of a most dangerous nature wherever it breaks 

 out, and cannot be too carefully guarded against, as will be 

 seen further on. 



DYSENTERY AND ITS PREVENTION. 



The presence of this disease may be known by the bottom- 

 board within and around the entrance to the hive being spotted 

 with a dirty, yellowish, disagreeable-looking excrement, which 

 has an intolerably offensive smell. The abdomens of many of 

 the bees become so distended that they can no longer fly, but 

 may be seen dragging themselves outside the hive to die. The 

 chief causes of the evil are — cold, damp hives, unwholesome 

 food, and long confinement during severe winters. It usually 

 makes its appearance in the latter part of winter and early 

 spring. Ineffective ventilation with a low temperature is pro- 

 ductive of dampness by causing the condensation of the watery 

 vapour given off by the bees, which, settling on the combs, 

 dilutes and sours the honey, and consequently makes it un- 



