Effect of stearin and paraffin adulteration of beeswax on brood survival

Abstract The study examined the effect of stearin and paraffin adulteration wax foundation on brood survival. In combs formed a stearin-adulterated (10, 30, 50% stearin, which means: 3.9, 11.7, 19.5% stearic acid, respectively), survival decreased statistically significantly ( p ? 0.001) compared to rates noted pure beeswax foundation. appearance resembled so-called scattered although queens oviposited normally. was caused by death young larvae, most probably due changes in properties royal jelly. Larvae transferred into cups died as well. with 50%) did not reduce but lowered mechanical strength combs. Adulteration even small amount stearin/stearic acid makes it useless for apiculture.