Glossary M
Machine learning algorithms
Computer programs that can analyze data and make predictions about bee behavior and health.
Magnetic field
The Earth’s magnetic field used by bees for navigation.
Magnetic field detection
The ability of bees to detect and navigate using the Earth’s magnetic field.
Maintaining
The ongoing care and maintenance required to keep bee colonies healthy and productive.
Maintenance
The process of keeping beekeeping equipment in good working condition.
Maintenance of bee colonies
Regular upkeep tasks such as cleaning, feeding, and inspecting hives.
Maintenance schedule
A plan for regular maintenance of beekeeping equipment.
Male haploid drones
Male bees that develop from unfertilized eggs and have only one set of chromosomes.
Management
The overall process of caring for and maintaining bee colonies.
Mandibular gland
A gland located in the head of bees that produces pheromones used for communication.
Manual extraction
The process of manually removing honey from beehives using specialized tools.
Manual instructions
Written instructions on how to use and maintain beekeeping equipment.
Manual vs electric extractors
The two types of honey extractors used in beekeeping, with manual extractors requiring physical effort and electric extractors using a motor to spin the frames.
Manufacturer recommendations
Guidelines provided by the manufacturer on the use and maintenance of beekeeping equipment.
Mass spectrometry
A technique used to analyze the chemical composition of honey.
Mating flights
The flights of drones to mate with the queen bee.
Maximum hive limits
The maximum number of hives allowed in a certain area.
Mechanical failure
The malfunction or breakdown of mechanical components in beekeeping equipment.
Mediation services
Services that help resolve conflicts between beekeepers and neighbors.
Melissopalynology
The study of pollen found in honey, used to identify the plants and flowers visited by bees and determine the geographical origin of honey.
Melittin
A toxin found in bee venom that can have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Melting wax
The process of heating beeswax to a liquid state for use in various beekeeping activities such as candle making and cosmetics production.
Melting wax cappings
The process of melting the wax caps on honeycomb cells to extract honey.
Microbial contamination prevention
Measures taken to prevent the contamination of honey with bacteria or other microorganisms, such as proper storage and handling.
Microbial control
The process of controlling the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms in bee hives and honey.
Microbial diversity in hives
The diversity of microorganisms present within a beehive.
Microbial growth prevention
Methods used to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in beekeeping equipment.
Microscopic examination of honey samples
The process of examining honey samples under a microscope to detect any contaminants or impurities.
Minerals
Essential nutrients for bees, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Minimum distance requirements between hives and property lines or structures
The minimum distance required by law between beehives and property lines or structures.
Mite infestation
The presence of varroa mites in bee colonies, which can cause damage and disease.
Moisture content
The amount of moisture present in beehives, which can impact colony health and honey production.
Moisture content control
The process of controlling the moisture content of honey to prevent spoilage and maintain quality.
Moisture content monitoring
The process of monitoring the moisture content of honey to ensure it is within safe levels.
Moisture content of honey
The amount of water present in honey, which should be below a certain level to prevent spoilage.
Moisture control
Techniques used to manage the humidity levels inside the hive to prevent mold and other issues.
Moisture measurement methods
Techniques used to measure the amount of moisture in beekeeping equipment.
Moisture-proofing features
Features of bee hives or honey storage containers that prevent moisture from entering and damaging the honey.
Moisture regulation
The process of regulating the moisture content of honey, which can affect its quality and shelf life.
Moisturizing
The process of keeping the bees’ environment moist to prevent dehydration.
Monitoring colony behavior
Observing and tracking the behavior of bee colonies to identify potential issues and promote healthy growth.
Motor failure
The malfunction or breakdown of the motor in a beekeeping equipment.
Motor inspection checklist
A list of items to check when inspecting the motor of a beekeeping equipment.
Mouse guard
A device used to prevent mice from entering bee hives and stealing honey or damaging the hive.
Mouth ulcers treatment
Treatment for mouth ulcers in bees, which can be caused by disease or injury.
Mouthwash alternative
Natural alternatives to mouthwash, such as propolis or honey, which can help maintain oral hygiene in bees.
Multiple sclerosis
A neurological disorder that can affect beekeepers, causing symptoms such as fatigue and muscle weakness.