Abstract
A model which predicts the numbers of immature and adult drones in an Apis mellifera colony throughout the season has been developed. Drone egg production is 24% of that for workers but is suppressed until such time as sufficient workers are present in the colony to forage and to nurse the immature stages. Larval and pupal numbers are predicted by applying mean developmental times and mortality factors to the eggs produced. Adult drone numbers are calculated by modifying the pupal numbers by adult longevity. Data generated by the model compare favourably with and are discussed in relation to published observations. The effects of brood destruction and adult eviction are discussed.
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