On Saturday 3rd February a group of around 16 people headed to WBKA headquarters at Stoneleigh for a day of microscopy. The motivation was different across the group – some were studying for the module, some were considering joining the microscopy group and others just wanted to have a go.
The day was split into multiple activities. We tested for the acarine mite by taking the head and collar off the bee and inspecting the trachea. This was followed by full dissection of the thorax with the bee held in wax. In the afternoon, we tested for Nosema and compared slides where it was and wasn’t present and then we looked through various bits of pollen including Hazel and Snowdrop.
It was a fascinating day taught by Sean Stephenson which was highly recommended.
