Microscopy for Beekeepers

Course Description

The microscope is a powerful tool which can provide a great deal of insight into the health and environment of our honeybees. In this course, we will use both compound and dissecting microscopes and cover their use for different beekeeping applications. Using practical examples of honeybee anatomy, disease diagnosis, and pollen identification, participants will be able to learn and practice many of the skills required for an Association Microscopist, BBKA Module 5, BBKA Module 3 or the BBKA Microscopy certificate.

Topics covered include:

• The basic theory of light microscopes
• Setting up and using compound and stereo (dissecting) microscopes
• Pollen reference slides and identification
• Identification of the floral composition of honey
• Honeybee anatomy and dissection
• Morphometry
• Adult bee disease diagnosis

The workshop takes place in the modern lab facilities of the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester and is intended to provide participants with set-up and usage skills with microscopes. Prior knowledge of microscopy is not required, but some understanding of beekeeping will be helpful, so participants can contextualise the subjects covered.

Course Fees

The £110 course fee includes microscopes, consumables, course handouts and refreshments, but no lunch. Attendees are therefore required to bring their own packed lunch.

Please also bring 'Pollen Identification for beekeepers' by Reg Sawyer and 'Microscopy for beekeepers' by Bob Maurer if you have these books.

Cancellation Policy

We reserve the right to reschedule or cancel the course. Should this be necessary you will be given the option of a refund or a transfer to an alternative date. We will give as much notice as possible, but regret that we cannot be responsible for any other costs such as those relating to travel or accommodation that might result from this.

Students who have booked on courses may cancel and receive a full refund if notice of cancellation is received within two weeks from the date of booking. If notice of cancellation is received after two weeks from the date of booking, refunds will only be issued if the cancelled place(s) can be re-sold.

A course booking indicates an acceptance of this cancellation policy.

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