ln recent times, nosemosis was thought to be caused by the specific protozoan
Nosema apis, a spore forming parasite that invades the intestinal tract of adult bees
and is widespread in Europeans countries including Portugal. Ever since, in most of
cases, there are no clear symptoms, the diagnosis of this disease only can be
confirmed in laboratory. The Bee Pathology Laboratory from the Agrarian Superior
School of Bragança (ESAB), is located in Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro province,
formed in collaboration with the Apicultural Association of Montesinho Natural Park
(AAPNM). It has certification by Portuguese Veterinary Authority in the 2006
