Requeen with hygienic stock

Replace the existing queen with one bred from a hygienic genetic line to strengthen the colony's natural defense against chalkbrood. Hygienic bees detect diseased or dead larvae by scent, uncap infected cells, and remove the mummified brood before spores can spread further. Purchase a mated queen from a breeder who selects for hygienic behavior, then introduce her using a queen cage over several days so the colony accepts her.

Why It Works

Chalkbrood persists when infected larvae remain in cells and release spores. Hygienic bees break this cycle by removing infected brood within 24-48 hours, drastically reducing the spore load inside the hive. Colonies headed by hygienic queens show significantly lower chalkbrood recurrence over successive brood cycles.

Tips

• Ask breeders for queens that have passed the freeze-killed brood assay or liquid nitrogen test for verified hygienic behavior
• Requeen in spring or early summer when colony acceptance rates are highest
• Allow at least two brood cycles after requeening before evaluating improvement
• Combine requeening with improved ventilation for faster results