VARROA RESISTANCE · VSH & SMR
What do VSH and SMR mean when choosing a Buckfast queen? Distinguish a selection goal from evidence for a particular colony.
01 — VARROA RESISTANCE · VSH & SMR
VSH stands for Varroa Sensitive Hygiene; SMR stands for Suppressed Mite Reproduction. These traits are studied in breeding for resistance to Varroa.
Behaviour associated with the removal of Varroa-infested brood.
Reduced reproductive success of mites, assessed in the brood.
02 — VARROA RESISTANCE · VSH & SMR
Neither the Buckfast name nor an F0 or F1 designation proves Varroa resistance. Ask about the line, mating method, assessment protocol and observations available for the queen concerned.
At Keller Bees, VSH and SMR are breeding objectives. We make no promise of complete resistance, treatment-free beekeeping or guaranteed performance.
03 — VARROA RESISTANCE · VSH & SMR
Selection does not replace health monitoring. Management decisions must reflect your colonies’ situation and the applicable apicultural recommendations.
For your project, discuss the selection information available and the limits of those observations with us.
A QUESTION, A PROJECT?
Describe what you need and your preferred timing. We will discuss the possibilities and conditions with you directly.
