Inbreeding and heterosis in queen bees in relation to brood area and honey production

Abstract

The brood area and weight gain of colonies headed by hybrid queens were compared with those headed by their inbred parentals. Although the colonies headed by hybrid queens had increased brood production, this did not lead to increased honey production. There was a significant increase in the longevity of hybrid queens compared with inbreds, and this alone may justify their use by apiarists.