System dynamics modeling for precision beekeeping: Queen rearing optimization for advanced apiary management

A. Smilga-Spalvina¹²*, K. Spalvins¹1 and I. Veidenbergs¹

¹Riga Technical University, Institute of Energy Systems and Environment, Āzenes street 12/1, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia
²Smilga Spalvina Llc., Planupes street 11A, LV-2141 Incukalns, Sigulda district, Latvia
*Correspondence: smilga.agnese@gmail.com

Abstract:

The authors propose system dynamics modelling as a new direction in Precision Beekeeping. By modeling the production process in beekeeping, it is possible to forecast the potential production capacity before the season, using the resources available to the beekeeper. The model included in this article reflects one specialisation of beekeeping – queen bee rearing, from the process of queen bee breeding up to the sale of queen bees throughout the entire season. The model helps beekeepers make decisions about the workforce needed to maintain the desired production volume, expected income and costs and resource allocation.

Key words:

apiary management, Apis mellifera, bee breeding, honey bee, Precision beekeeping, queen rearing, system dynamic modeling

Using oxalic acid in water solution in control of Varroa mites and its influence on honey bees

K. Toomemaa, A.-J. Martin, M. Mänd, I. H. Williams

Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of LifeSciences, 1A Kreutzwaldi St, 51014 Tartu, Estonia; e-mail: ktoomemaa@gmail.com;ants.martin@emu.ee

Abstract:

We studied the toxicity of water solutions containing various concentrations of oxalic acid dihydrate to bees and Varroa mites (Varroa destructor) using by spraying honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies with no brood or little brood in beehive conditions in West-Viru County, Estonia. A water solution of 0.5% OA gave effective control of the mite and was not toxic to bees whereas higher concentrations of OA (1.0 and 1.5%) were highly toxic to bees. In autumn, spraying test colonies that had little capped brood once or twice with a 0.5% OA solution gave effective mite control (92.94 ± 0.01% and 91.84 ± 0.02%, respectively) with no noticeable toxicity to bees.

Key words: