Colour of cell cappings
The first observable symptom of AFB is usually a change in the appearance of cell cappings
Healthy cappings (Fig. 1) are raised in shape, and range in colour from light to dark brown.
Cappings covering infected cells will initially be the same colour as the uninfected cells surrounding them. However, infected cells will eventually become darker in colour until they appear black. Infected cells also develop a moist, almost greasy appearance and become sunken (Fig. 2).
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Our videos cover everything from your legal obligations to how to recognise AFB, collecting cell and bee samples and more.
There’s a lot of good information here, telling you everything you need to know about recognising AFB: the visual symptoms, smell of AFB and more.
New Zealand beekeepers have a number of legal obligations that must be met regarding AFB disease. Read the shortened list in summary, here.
Most hives become infected because bees, honey or equipment have been put into a hive from another hive that is infected with AFB. Lower your chances of an AFB infection by reading this section.
Find out when the next AFB Recognition and Competency Courses, or Refresher Courses are available. These are held throughout the year in various New Zealand locations across the South Island and North Island.