Perforated metal mesh frames serve primarily as induction devices for the controlled production and collection of propolis. In modular stingless bee hive designs, these frames leverage the bees' natural instinct to seal gaps with resin. By providing a structured grid of holes, beekeepers can harvest propolis efficiently without disrupting the colony’s internal honey sacs or brood structures.
Core Takeaway These frames transform the colony's defensive resin-collecting behavior into a standardized production line. They enable the sustainable, "plug-and-play" harvesting of propolis by separating the collection surface from vital hive components, ensuring colony health remains uncompromised during extraction.
The Mechanics of Propolis Induction
Leveraging Biological Instincts
Stingless bees possess a strong biological drive to seal crevices and gaps within their nesting environment to maintain internal conditions. The perforated metal mesh simulates a series of gaps that trigger this defensive sealing behavior.
The Transformation Process
When exposed to the mesh, bees actively collect plant resins and deposit them into the perforations. Over time, this resin creates a solid sheet of high-quality propolis within the frame structure.
Strategic Advantages in Hive Management
Non-Destructive Harvesting
The most critical function of the mesh frame is protecting the hive's integrity. Traditional harvesting often risks damaging internal structures like honey pots (cerumen pots) or brood combs. The mesh frame allows beekeepers to extract propolis without physically touching or rupturing these delicate areas.
Modular Sustainability
The design supports a modular workflow. A beekeeper can simply remove a filled frame and immediately replace it with a clean one. This minimizes the time the hive is open and reduces stress on the colony, aligning with the goal of sustainable, low-impact beekeeping.
Distinguishing Mesh Roles: Frames vs. Screens
Internal Frames for Production
It is vital to distinguish between internal frames and external screens. The perforated frames inside the module are specifically for propolis induction (the "product").
External Screens for Protection
Conversely, precision metal mesh screens (often with a 3mm aperture) placed at hive entrances serve a different function. These act as physical barriers against pests, specifically preventing large invaders like adult small hive beetles from entering, while allowing the smaller stingless bees to pass freely.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Energy Allocation Costs
While mesh frames stimulate propolis production, they require colony energy. Every bit of resin collected to fill a mesh frame is energy that could have been used for building natural batumen walls or foraging for nectar. Overusing induction frames in weak colonies can stunt growth.
Environmental Dependency
The effectiveness of these frames relies on the availability of resin sources in the surrounding environment. In resin-poor areas, bees may struggle to fill the frames, leading to wasted hive space and potential thermal regulation issues if the "gaps" remain unsealed for too long.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
When integrating perforated metal mesh frames into your modular hive setup, consider your specific production targets:
- If your primary focus is Propolis Production: Prioritize the use of internal mesh frames in strong, established colonies that have excess energy to dedicate to resin collection.
- If your primary focus is Colony Health and Stability: Use entrance mesh screens (3mm) to secure the hive against pests, but limit the use of internal induction frames until the colony reaches peak population.
- If your primary focus is Honey Production: Minimize internal mesh frames to ensure the bees redirect their energy toward wax production for honey pots and nectar foraging, rather than resin collection.
The effective use of metal mesh frames changes beekeeping from a scavenging activity into a controlled, sustainable production science.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Internal Mesh Frames | External Entrance Screens |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Propolis Induction & Collection | Pest Prevention (Small Hive Beetles) |
| Mechanism | Triggers defensive resin sealing | Physical barrier with 3mm aperture |
| Placement | Inside hive modules | Hive entrances |
| Impact on Colony | High energy/resin consumption | Security and physical protection |
| Best For | Commercial propolis production | Colony health and stability |
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References
- Muhammad Naufal Hakim, Muhammad Yusuf Abduh. Produksi Propolis dari Lebah Tetragonula laeviceps Menggunakan Sarang MOTIVE yang Dilengkapi dengan Sistem Instrumentasi. DOI: 10.5614/joki.2018.10.2.6
This article is also based on technical information from HonestBee Knowledge Base .
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