The 10-centimeter elevation is a critical control measure. It serves as a physical firewall between your data samples and the surrounding ecosystem. Specifically, this height prevents ground-dwelling scavengers and field insects from infiltrating the box to feed on the dead bees.
By elevating the collector, you ensure that the dead bee count reflects actual hive mortality rather than scavenger activity, guaranteeing the statistical integrity of your data.
The Science of Data Preservation
Creating an Exclusion Zone
The primary function of the Box-type collector is to capture biological evidence. However, in a field environment, dead bees represent a viable food source for other insects and small animals.
By installing the box at least 10 centimeters above the ground, you create a vertical gap that many crawling scavengers cannot easily bridge. This effectively blocks ants, beetles, and other field pests from entering the collection chamber.
Ensuring Statistical Accuracy
The value of a dead bee collector lies entirely in the data it provides regarding hive health. If scavengers access the box, they will consume or remove the bee corpses.
This external interference artificially lowers the count of dead bees. Consequently, your mortality statistics will be skewed, potentially hiding a serious die-off event or minimizing the perceived impact of pesticides.
Common Pitfalls in Installation
The Risk of Vegetation "Bridges"
Even if the box is installed on a stand of the correct height, the environment can compromise it. Tall grass or weeds growing beneath the collector can bridge the 10-centimeter gap.
If vegetation touches the box, it provides a ramp for scavengers to bypass the elevation barrier. You must clear the ground immediately beneath the collector to maintain the physical isolation.
Stability and Leveling
While the primary reference emphasizes height for pest exclusion, structural stability is also vital.
As noted in general apiary practices, equipment must be stable and level. An unstable collector may tip over, spilling samples and rendering the data useless.
Ensuring Reliable Monitoring
To get the most accurate data from your Box-type dead bee collector, follow these guidelines:
- If your primary focus is data integrity: Rigorously maintain the 10cm gap and clear any vegetation underneath that could act as a ladder for insects.
- If your primary focus is long-term monitoring: Ensure the stand is level and stable to prevent tipping, which would expose samples to ground moisture and scavengers.
Elevation is not just about placement; it is the primary method for validating your research.
Summary Table:
| Key Feature | Requirement | Benefit to Beekeeping Data |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Height | Minimum 10 Centimeters | Creates a physical firewall against crawling scavengers and field insects. |
| Ground Clearance | Clear of all vegetation | Eliminates "bridges" that allow ants and beetles to bypass the elevation gap. |
| Leveling | Stable & Balanced | Prevents accidental tipping and loss of biological samples. |
| Core Objective | Statistical Integrity | Ensures dead bee counts reflect actual hive health, not scavenger activity. |
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References
- José Luis Gómez Pérez, Aránzazu Meana. Easy ways to determine honey bee mortality using dead-bee traps. DOI: 10.1080/00218839.2001.11101045
This article is also based on technical information from HonestBee Knowledge Base .
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