North Carolina Bee School Practice Exam

Which feature of Langstroth's hive design is essential for effective beekeeping?

1. Use of natural comb

2. Removable frames

3. Static hive structure

4. Open mesh floors

The correct answer is: Removable frames

Removable frames are a fundamental feature of Langstroth's hive design, making them essential for effective beekeeping. This innovation allows beekeepers to easily inspect, manage, and harvest honey without damaging the bees' natural structure. The frames can be taken out, examined for health issues, pests, or to assess honey production, which is vital for maintaining a healthy bee colony and optimizing honey yields. The ability to remove these frames also supports the practice of techniques such as brood management and swarm prevention. Beekeepers can rotate frames, replace old comb, and introduce new queen bees as needed. This flexibility is crucial for adapting to the changing conditions within the hive and for responding to the seasonal needs of the bees. The convenience of removable frames significantly streamlines many processes involved in beekeeping, making them indispensable.