Beehive terminology is often interchangeable, describing boxes based on either their physical dimensions or their specific function within the colony. While the terms "super" or "hive body" can technically refer to any box regardless of size, beekeepers generally use specific names like "deeps," "mediums," or "shallows" to distinguish boxes by height.
Core Takeaway Ideally, terms should clarify whether you are discussing the box's size or its purpose. "Deep" boxes (9-5/8 inches tall) are standard for the brood nest, while "mediums" and "shallows" are shorter, lighter boxes typically referred to as "honey supers" because they are used to store surplus honey.
Classifying Boxes by Function vs. Dimensions
To communicate effectively with suppliers or other beekeepers, you must distinguish between names based on what the box does and names based on how big the box is.
General Terminology
The most broad terms you will encounter are "hive body" and "super."
According to general usage, these terms can apply to any box in the stack. However, "hive body" is frequently used to describe the lower boxes containing the colony's core, while "super" (derived from superstructure) usually refers to boxes added on top.
Naming by Height (Physical Size)
Standardized hives rely on boxes with identical lengths and widths but varying heights.
- Deeps: These are the tallest standard boxes, measuring 9-5/8 inches in height.
- Mediums: These are shorter than deeps and are a common compromise between weight and volume.
- Shallows: These are the shortest boxes available, designed specifically to be lightweight when full.
Naming by Purpose (Function)
When beekeepers describe what the box is used for, the terminology changes.
- Brood Box: This refers to the area where the queen lays eggs and the colony raises young bees. Because this requires significant space, deep boxes are almost exclusively used for this purpose.
- Honey Super: This refers to boxes placed above the brood nest specifically for honey storage. Beekeepers typically use mediums or shallows for this role to reduce the weight they must lift during harvest.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Choosing the right combination of boxes involves balancing the needs of the bees against the physical capabilities of the beekeeper.
Weight Management vs. Volume
Deep boxes maximize volume, allowing the colony to build a large continuous brood nest without interruption.
However, a deep box full of honey is incredibly heavy. Consequently, using deeps for honey storage is rare; shallows and mediums are preferred as "honey supers" because they are significantly easier to lift and manipulate.
Equipment Compatibility
While boxes stack seamlessly regardless of height, the frames inside them do not.
A frame acts as a skeleton for the honeycomb and must match the box's depth exactly. You cannot use a deep frame in a medium box (it will not fit), nor a medium frame in a deep box (the bees will build messy "burr comb" in the empty space).
Width Variations
While height determines the box name (deep/medium), the width is determined by frame capacity.
Standard boxes typically hold 10 frames. However, 8-frame boxes are increasingly common options for beekeepers who want to further reduce the weight of every box, regardless of its height.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Selecting the correct terminology and equipment depends on which part of the hive management process you are prioritizing.
- If your primary focus is Colony Health: Prioritize Deep boxes (Brood Boxes) for the bottom of the hive to give the queen the uninterrupted vertical space she prefers for laying eggs.
- If your primary focus is Ergonomics: Utilize Mediums or Shallows (Honey Supers) for all upper boxes, or consider 8-frame equipment to minimize heavy lifting.
Correctly using these terms ensures you buy compatible frames and foundations that fit your specific hive configuration.
Summary Table:
| Term | Standard Height | Primary Function | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep | 9-5/8 inches | Brood Box | Raising young bees and winter stores |
| Medium | 6-5/8 inches | Honey Super / Brood | Versatile box; lighter honey storage |
| Shallow | 5-11/16 inches | Honey Super | Lightweight honey collection |
| Hive Body | Varies | Colony Core | The main living space of the hive |
| Super | Varies | Honey Storage | Boxes added on top for surplus honey |
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