Api "Max" queen rearing system images
The Api comb, model "Max", is made as a budget alternative to the Nicot-30 system, with similar features for rearing queen bees.
The Api "MAXI" system is the larger model in the range from the Bulgarian company "Api". The "max" model is very close to the Nicot system. Most parts of these systems are interchangeable. This set is identical to the Nicot-30 kit. Even all components are made so that owners of Nicot systems can use the cheaper components from this system.
Visually, the Api "Maxi" design differs very little from the original Nicot system. The main comb cassette of the Api "Maxi" has 110 holes for cell cups. It is closed on both sides with grids to isolate the queen bee on the comb. In the Api "Max" system, the front and rear grids are the same, unlike the grids in Nicot, where the front grid differs from the rear one. As in the Nicot system, the cassette has a compartment with space for candy and for introducing queen bees. However, the slotted grid above this compartment does not allow the system to be used fully for queen introduction. Most beekeepers do not use this function. Owners of Api "Max" should note the special queen introduction cages with space for candy >>> .
The image shows how you can visually distinguish the Nicot system cassette from the Api "Maxi" without prior preparation.
Api "Maxi" cell cups are practically no different from Nicot cell cups and are also readily accepted by bees. The Api "Max" holder for the cell cup is brown (beige in Nicot) and differs slightly in shape from Nicot holders, but these changes do not create any functional differences. The beige holder base (brown in Nicot) has two holes for attaching it to the grafting bar. Cell cups with larvae, once fixed to the holders, are transferred to the grafting bar with prepared bases and placed into a prepared bee colony for queen cell rearing.
Thanks to its high technical characteristics and relatively low price, the "Maxi" ApiMini will become an indispensable helper in your apiary. We wish you success in queen rearing!
