The Purpose Instrumental insemination is an essential tool for the bee breeder. This technique provides research scientists with a method to study honey bee genetics and provides a means for beekeepers to improve stock. Because honey bee queens multiple mate in flight, the mating process is random and difficult to control. Without controlled mating, gains in selective breeding are not possible or enduring. Considering the current challenges facing beekeepers, the need to focus on sustainable solutions through selective breeding is essential. Honey bees diseases and parasitic mites are developing resistance to our arsenal of chemical controls. These chemicals are becoming more toxic and being used in higher concentrations. This poses an increasing threat. Stock improvement will not provide the immediate and convenient remedy of chemical treatments. It is not the "quick fix" solution. This requires a focused and labor intensive effort, and a long term commitment. The results, the enjoyment of increased productivity and uniformity of healthy colonies, are worthwhile. The technique of instrumental insemination has been perfected to provide a high rate of success, equaling that of naturally mated queens. There are choices in techniques and equipment design to satisfy personal preferences and different needs. Equipment Choice (Top) A major emphasis of my work is to promote stock improvement and provide training in instrumental insemination. The equipment offered here is of high quality and that which I personally use and recommend. All use micro-manipulators, making the technique easier to learn and provide precision and repeatability of very fine movements. Of the three instruments and accessories described here, choice is largely based upon personal preference and level of use. Each has a different feel in handling and offers different features which are presented here to help you make an informed decision. The type and quality of equipment used will make a difference in the ease or difficulty of learning and using this technique. It is an investment in the future. If you have any questions, concerns or would like more information, please contact me directly. When Ordering Parts (Top) There is little standardization of parts between instruments. When ordering spare parts, please specify the type of instrument you are using and specific preferences. Pay attention to the details and choices listed in the descriptions here. If you have a different or hand build instrument, please ask and I will try to accommodate your needs. The Instrument (Top) The basic instrument consists of a supporting stand, a queen holder assembly, a set of hooks or forceps and a syringe. A heavy base is desirable so that the instrument is steady. The operation consists of collecting semen from drones into a syringe. The queen is anaesthetized, placed in a holding tube and her vaginal chamber opened with a pair of hooks or forceps. A measured amount of semen is injected directly into the oviducts. The use of perforated sting hooks and forceps has replaced the classic "spoon shaped" sting hook. These are easier to use because the sting structure is lifted and the vaginal cavity opened into a more natural mating position. Lifting of the sting in this manner eases insertion of the syringe tip. An essential feature of this delicate procedure is to have the ability of a wide range of very fine and precise movements of the hooks and syringe. Modern instrument designs employ the use of micro-manipulators. These improvements have made the technique easier to learn and provide consistency in the repeatability of the technique. Microscopes & Lights (Top) A microscope and light are also required. These vary in quality and price. A binocular dissecting stereomicroscope with a zoom lens and power range of 6X to 20X magnification is preferable. A microscope with a fixed magnification of 10X or 20X is adequate and more economical but does not provide good depth of field. The microscope you choose must be compatible with your instrument. This is especially important when using the Schley or Swienty instruments which have large bases. There are a variety of microscope stands available. Choose one that allows sufficient working space and adequate height of adjustment for the insemination instrument. A cool light is also needed. A fiber optic illuminator is preferable, a halogen or tungsten illuminator with a heat filter can also be used. Stereomicroscopes and lights that are specifically suited to match the insemination instrument you choose can be provided. If you are interested in a microscope package with your instrument, please contact me for more details. Source Of Carbon Dioxide (Top) A source of carbon dioxide gas to anesthetize the queen is necessary. A gas regulator that delivers a slow and continuous flow is required for the procedure. Tanks and regulators can be obtained from gas & welding suppliers.