Laboratory of Honey Bee Biology and Breeding

The laboratory's research and professional work aims to conserve biodiversity, improve beekeeping technologies, and develop and implement breeding and selection programmes. This includes morphometric, genetic and ethological analyses, determining the level of ectoparasite infestation in honey bees, estimating breeding values, instrumental insemination and economic analyses of beekeeping. The laboratory's capacities are also used for long-term monitoring and analysis of colony losses and for national and international research and development projects.

The laboratory has modern laboratory and demonstration equipment for research, professional and teaching activities. It keeps two apiaries with a total of 40 bee colonies, used for scientific and applied research, practical classes and professional training, and it also has an isolated mating station. The laboratory includes the Bee Park, 600 m² in area, an educational and demonstration space for spreading knowledge and raising public awareness of the biology, importance and protection of honey bees and other pollinators.

The laboratory also plays an important role in teaching. It provides practical and research training for students of all study cycles, runs basic and advanced courses for beekeepers and other professionals, and contributes to the creation and publication of scientific, professional and educational literature on beekeeping and honey bee biology.