Understanding Burr Comb and Cross Comb in Langstroth Hives
Burr Comb
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Burr comb refers to small, irregular wax structures built by bees in unintended gaps within the hive, such as between frames, under the lid, or across the inner cover. These structures arise when spacing within the hive exceeds the ideal bee space, which is approximately 6 to 9 millimetres. In these situations, bees instinctively fill the space with wax or propolis (Bradbear, 2009; Seeley, 2010). Langstroth’s original design emphasized this precise spacing, noting that deviations would prompt bees to either block tight gaps with propolis or fill wide spaces with comb (Langstroth, 1853).
Cross Comb
Cross comb occurs when bees construct comb at angles that do not align with the frames. Instead of building straight within the plane of a frame, the comb stretches across adjacent frames. This results in disorganized construction that complicates inspections and often leads to the destruction of comb
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during hive management (Winston, 1987).
Causes of Burr Comb and Cross Comb
Several factors contribute to the
formation of burr and cross comb. First, improper bee space is a major culprit.
If the space between hive components deviates from the 6–9 mm standard, bees
will likely modify the space by constructing wax bridges or barriers.
Misaligned or warped frames also create uneven gaps, encouraging the bees to
build in unintended directions (Root, 1921).
Additionally, the absence of
foundation or poorly attached foundation sheets can prompt bees to follow their
instincts and create naturally oriented, and often irregular, combs (Hepburn
& Radloff, 2011). Another significant cause is the orientation and leveling
of the hive. Bees rely on gravity to construct vertical combs. If the hive is
tilted, especially from side to side, the bees’ natural alignment is disrupted,
leading to angled combs that result in cross combing (Seeley, 2010).
Furthermore, introducing swarms into
boxes without drawn comb or foundation often results in haphazard comb
building, particularly in deep boxes with no visual or structural guides
(Crane, 1990).
Disadvantages of Burr Comb and Cross Comb
The disadvantages of burr and cross
comb are numerous. They impede routine inspections by fusing frames together or
obscuring frame edges, making it difficult to lift them without damaging bees
or comb. This increases the risk of injuring the queen or destroying brood and
honey stores. Additionally, broken burr comb filled with honey creates a sticky
mess that attracts pests and disturbs the colony. Over time, irregular comb
reduces usable hive space and complicates colony management (Delaplane, 2007).
Control and Prevention
To control and prevent burr and cross
comb, several strategies can be implemented. Maintaining precise bee space is
essential. This involves using quality equipment and regularly inspecting for
warped or damaged frames. Providing bees with foundation sheets or comb starter
strips guides proper comb construction, especially in new hives (Hepburn &
Radloff, 2011).
Ensuring that hives are level,
particularly from side to side, supports natural vertical comb alignment.
Frequent early inspections during comb-building phases allow beekeepers to
intervene before cross comb becomes extensive. In addition, using the correct
number of frames to avoid excessive gaps in supers can prevent bees from
constructing comb in unintended spaces.
Corrective actions include trimming
irregular comb early and realigning frames. If done promptly, bees often adapt
and reconstruct comb in the desired direction. Consistent management and
attention to structural detail ensure that Langstroth hives function as
intended, reducing disruptions and supporting colony health.
References
Bradbear, N. (2009). Bees and their
role in forest livelihoods: A guide to the services provided by bees and the
sustainable harvesting, processing and marketing of their products. Food
and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. https://www.fao.org/3/i0842e/i0842e.pdf
Crane, E. (1990). Bees and
beekeeping: Science, practice and world resources. Heinemann.
Delaplane, K. S. (2007). First
lessons in beekeeping. Dadant & Sons.
Hepburn, H. R., & Radloff, S. E.
(2011). Honeybees of Asia. Springer.
Langstroth, L. L. (1853). Langstroth
on the Hive and the Honey-Bee: A Bee Keeper's Manual. Hopkins and Brothers.
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/24583
Root, A. I. (1921). ABC and XYZ of
Bee Culture. A. I. Root Company.
Seeley, T. D. (2010). Honeybee
democracy. Princeton University Press.
Winston, M. L. (1987). The biology
of the honey bee. Harvard University Press.
