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Black dried and hardened debris is the sign of Foulbrood. If the comb hasn’t been used in a long time, it most likely has some mold on it (especially if there was any honey left in the cells when stored). If the cells look fine except for being black (none of that dried debris), this is probably the case. You still shouldn’t use any of this equipment, unless you risk disease and bad honey. The supers and hive bodies may (emphasis on may) be used with new frames if they are in decent condition, but there is still a risk of disease. If you can, ask the previous owner. If they stopped using the hive because of the death of the colony, don’t use it.
Backyard Beekeeper by Jim Flottum
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