Natural Beekeeping International Forum

[wuertele]

The goal of mesh floors is to pass Varroa but not bees. Therefore we need a hole size bigger than a mite and smaller than a bee.

For the sake of argument, let's hypothesize that a 3mm x 3mm square opening is the biggest opening we can tolerate. What then would be the optimum wire gauge?

My local supplier of hardware cloth lists the following combinations, all with 3mm x 3mm square openings:

34 gauge (.0063" dia) => 8 mesh (eight openings per linear inch)
27 gauge (.0142" dia) => 7.5 mesh
22 gauge (.0253" dia) => 7 mesh
19 gauge (.0359" dia) => 6.5 mesh
17 gauge (.0453" dia) => 6 mesh
...
7 gauge (.1443" dia) => 3.75 mesh

Under my mesh floor, I will have a closed wooden space with removable panel, so I do not need the mesh to be strong enough to keep out large pests.

Does the diameter of the wire affect the ability of bees to walk on it, the ability of mites to catch themselves on it, or the propensity of bees to propolize it?

Seems to me that hole size being equal, a skinnier wire would be harder for mites to catch, and more difficult for bees to propolize. But it seems that it might be harder for the bees to walk on.

I'm I overthinking this? The answer is yes. But this is my hobby, and obsessing over details is how I enjoy my hobby!

[Gareth]

[trekmate]

[wuertele]

[biobee]

Bees spend very little time on the floor, whatever it is made from. They don't need horizontal surfaces to walk comfortably, as we do.

To understand bees, you must learn to think like a bee.

[ronald_stuffleb]

Google
Experimentation of an Anti-Varroa Screened Bottom Board in the Context of Developing an Integrated Pest Management Strategy for Varroa Infested Honeybees in the Province of Quebec

[Gareth]

[wuertele]

[biobee]

[wuertele]