When is the best time to test?
Ideally during the main season, when the colony is strong and there is plenty of sealed brood – typically from spring to summer. You can repeat the test on promising colonies several times per season, as the result is affected by weather, colony strength and the forage phase.
How often should I repeat the test?
For breeding selection we recommend at least 2–3 repetitions. Reliable colonies are those that keep good hygienic activity throughout the season. A single excellent result may be coincidental.
Which tool size (needle spacing) should I choose?
The needle spacing must match the cell size of your combs so each needle hits the centre of a cell. 4.9 mm for small cell, 5.1 mm for standard worker cells and 5.4 mm for wider cells. If unsure, write to us and we will advise.
Won't piercing the brood harm the colony?
Only a small area is tested (100 cells), which does not weaken a strong colony. On the contrary, the test helps you select healthier, more resistant colonies for breeding.
Which brood stage should I pierce?
Younger pupae, about 3–6 days after capping, are best – they pierce easily and the test reads well. Choose a continuous area of sealed brood.
What does the HT result mean?
HT is the average number of hours the colony took to clean one killed cell. The lower the better: under 10 h excellent, 10–20 very good, 20–35 good, 35–40 sufficient, 40 h and more insufficient (requeening recommended). Our calculator computes the result.
Is hygienic behaviour related to varroa?
Yes. Bees with strong hygienic behaviour also remove brood infested by the Varroa mite (the VSH trait). The test correlates with resistance to varroa, foulbrood, chalkbrood and viral infections. Under heavy mite pressure still monitor the drop and treat if needed.
How do payment and shipping work?
After you submit the order we show payment details for a bank transfer, including a QR payment. Once the amount is received we ship the tool. We confirm price and availability by e-mail.
