Re: Nosema sampling and preparation technique

From: Jonathan Dick
Date: 3/9/98
Time: 7:15:07 PM
Remote Name: 198.161.229.187

Comments

Nosema Test

Problems

1. Known probability of error

The probability for error increases the smaller the sample 12 out of 24 hives were tested 50 out of ~240,000 (low estimate) bees were tested

2. Unknown probability of error

The probability for error increases the more unequally distributed the spores. We don’t know how equally they are distributed Between each hive Between each bee Between each test ???

The main discrepency of concern is that two spore counts from the same sample gave considerably different results. Are the spores unequally distributed in the sample? Initially, to see if the spores settled, I tried testing the scum from the bottom of the sample; the result was 25 spores counted. Then, I covered and shook the sample; the result was 15!? Afterwards, I shook all the samples and retreived drops from the sample by submerging the wire loop to the bottom of the sample and slowly dragging it up the side. I counted spores in the four outside corners and the center square; I did check the other squares and the spores were consistantly destributed on the slide. The slide, cover and loop were rinsed with running water between each test and dried with a towel; once, I checked a rinsed slide under the microscope to be certain it was clean. The next test will be to see if the results become more consistant the longer the sample is shaken.

Jonathan Dick