256 AUSTRALASIAN 
CBAs i Ere ye 
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- 
