Identification of pathogenic Nosema species in apiaries of Markazi province

Document Type : Full Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Biotechnology, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO),

2 Brucellosis Department, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), , Karaj, Iran

3 Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Arak, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Nosema spp. is a genus of microsporidia in honeybees that reduces colony performance and honey production. These unicellular intracellular parasites specifically target the epithelial tissue of the honeybee midgut, causing disruptions in digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to immune system weakening, reduced lifespan of worker bees, and, in severe cases, complete colony collapseAccurate identification of Nosema apis (N. apis) or Nosema ceranae (N. ceranae) is a fundamental step in controlling or treating the infection in honeybee colonies. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiology and identify Nosema species using molecular methods in Markazi Province, Iran, over the period 2014–2024. Methods: A total of 59 samples were randomly collected from different hives across 11 counties of Markazi Province. Sampling was conducted from active apiaries during different seasons of the year. A multiplex PCR molecular method was employed to facilitate the simultaneous differentiation of N. apis and N. ceranae using specific primers targeting the ribosomal DNA region. The results obtained from PCR were compared with direct microscopic examination of homogenized abdominal suspensions of honeybees. Results: The overall infection rate in samples referred to the Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute was 28.8% by microscopic examination and 61% by molecular methods. The ratio of PCR positivity to microscopic positivity was calculated to be 2.12. Conclusion: In this study, the only Nosema species identified in infected honeybees was Nosema ceranae. Despite the collection and analysis of diverse samples from apiaries across the province, no samples of other known Nosema species were reported. Future steps should involve increasing the sample size to better cover spatiotemporal biodiversity and employing broader-range molecular diagnostic panels to more confidently determine the presence or absence of other species.

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Veterinary Research & Biological Products
Volume 39, Issue 3
October 2026
Pages 46-53

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History

  • Receive Date: 20 December 2025
  • Revise Date: 26 May 2026
  • Accept Date: 29 May 2026

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