Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1991
Title: Mark L Winston: Innovator in Honey Bee Colony Control
Introduction
Mark L Winston is a notable inventor based in New Westminster, B.C., Canada. He has made significant contributions to the field of entomology, particularly in the study of honey bee behavior and colony management. His innovative work has led to the development of a unique patent that addresses challenges in beekeeping.
Latest Patents
Winston holds a patent for a novel pheromone composition designed for controlling honey bee colonies. This patent, titled "Novel pheromone composition for use in controlling honey bee colonies," discloses a combination of five queen-produced mandibular gland substances. These substances include 9-keto-2(E)-decenoic acid, R-(-)- and S-(+)-9-hydroxy-2(E)-decenoic acid, methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylethanol. Each component is generally weakly active alone, but when blended in a specific ratio, they exhibit activity equivalent to queen mandibular extract at levels as low as 10^-7 of that present in a queen. This blend initiates the retinue response, which is crucial for establishing and stabilizing the social structure of the colony.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Mark L Winston has focused on the intricate dynamics of honey bee colonies. His research has provided valuable insights into the behavior of bees and the importance of pheromones in their social interactions. His work has implications not only for beekeepers but also for the broader agricultural community, as honey bees play a vital role in pollination.
Collaborations
Winston has collaborated with notable colleagues in his field, including Keith N Slessor and Lori-Ann Kaminski. These collaborations have further enriched his research and contributed to advancements in understanding honey bee behavior.
Conclusion
Mark L Winston's innovative contributions to the field of entomology, particularly through his patented pheromone composition, have the potential to revolutionize honey bee colony management. His work underscores the importance of understanding bee behavior for effective beekeeping practices.