Instrumental/Artificial Insemination of Honey Bee Queens

As an introduction to instrumental insemination this publication addresses the frequently asked questions about the technique. The answers are meant to give direction to further inquiry and to help evaluate the need and what is involved in mastering this skill. Commercial queen producers recognise the need for more rigorous programs to select, improve and maintain their breeding stocks. The public awareness of “CCD” and the movement of Africanised honey bees adds to this urgency. The development of micro-breeders and programs to select locally adapted and survival stock becoming more prevalent. Given these issues and concerns, a method of controlled mating is essential in achieving the goals of selective breeding.