Beekeeping Glossary
Abdomen
The third region of the body of a bee enclosing the honey stomach, true stomach, intestine, sting, and reproductive organs.
Absconding
An entire colony of bees that abandons the hive because of disease, wax moth, excessive heat or water, lack of resources, or other reasons.
Acarine Disease
The name of the disease caused by the tracheal mite (Acarapis woodi). See Tracheal mite.
Afterswarm
A small swarm which may leave the hive after the first or primary swarm has departed. These afterswarms usually have less bees associated with them than the primary swarm.
American Foulbrood
A brood disease of honey bees caused by the spore-forming bacterium, Paenibacillus larvae. The spore stage of the bacterium can remain viable for many years, making is difficult to eliminate the disease.a brood disease of honey bees caused by the spore-forming bacterium, Paenibacillus larvae. The spore stage of the bacterium can remain viable for many years, making is difficult to eliminate the disease.
Apiary
Colonies, hives, and other equipment assembled in one location for beekeeping operations; also known as a bee yard.
Apiculture
The science and art of raising honey bees.
Apis Mellifera
Genus and species of the Western honey bee originating in Europe and Africa and now located around the world.