Elements and Performance Criteria
- Determine breeding method
- Review options for artificial breeding to determine the most suitable and affordable method in line with breeding objectives
- Select an artificial breeding option in line with the organisation’s breeding program and queen and drone management program and match to resources
- Identify, source and arrange resource requirements
- Prepare program schedules based on available resources
- Confirm that suitable personal protective equipment for self and breeding support staff is available and in good condition
- Implement breeding method
- Obtain genetic material from reliable and legitimate sources
- Receive, check and store genetic material to ensure maximum viability and program outcomes
- Manage rearing times so that queen bees and drones are of appropriate age and condition when artificial insemination is scheduled to occur
- Collect semen from drones, prepare queens and inseminate using hygienic techniques to minimise risk of contamination
- After insemination, place queen in a colony of suitable strength and monitor.
- Monitor and maintain program
- Review adjustments in genetic material transfer practices to enhance success of future programs
- Document data on genetic material transfer programs
- Calculate and use success rates from breeding objectives to determine success of artificial insemination program
- Identify and record modifications to queen and drone management program to assist continuous improvement processes