Examination of the mass and dimensions of added elements attached to honey bee queens

Queen bees are marked with various visual and functional elements for identification and apitechnical purposes. To facilitate their detection, colored and numbered tags are commonly used. Additionally, electronic markers such as RFID tags are applied for tracking and data collection. In addition, one apitechnical method, queen ringing, is used to temporarily prevent egg laying. However, the mass and dimensions of these elements vary significantly depending on the model and manufacturer. Based on preliminary data, we analyzed the masses of commonly used elements relative to the average body weight of a queen bee. All values represent the average of five measurements. The standard plastic numbered tag weighs 2.28 mg (Ø 2.2mm). Colored decorative zircons used for improved visibility weigh 3.5 mg (Ø 1.1-2.5 mm). Newer magnetized metal tags weigh 9.12 mg (Ø2.5 mm), while electronic tags (RFID/UHF) typically weigh 5.3 mg (up to Ø 2.5 mm). Glue used for tags contributes 1.2–2.0 mg, shrinking by 10–60% depending on type. The ring, for queen ringing, weighs 55.2 mg, with a length of 7.5 mm and diameter of 6 mm. Assuming an average queen bee weight of 200 mg, the following weight percentages were observed (including ~1 mg of dried glue): plastic tag 1.64%, zircon 2.25%, metal tag 5.06%, RFID tag 3.15%, and ring 27.6% of her total body weight. In our trial of eleven queens ringing, no mortality or abnormal behavior was recorded, suggesting that the masses of all other elements do not significantly impair the queen’s normal function.