What is meant by the term "nectar robbing"?

The term "nectar robbing" specifically refers to the behavior of bees from one colony invading another colony's space to access and take nectar stored there. This often occurs when a colony has an abundance of nectar or when the invaded colony has a weakness, such as being smaller or having fewer workers. The invading bees are actively seeking out resources to support their own colony, which can lead to competition and conflict between colonies.

This behavior is significant in the bee community because it impacts resource distribution, colony strength, and can potentially lead to aggressive interactions. Understanding nectar robbing is important for beekeepers, as it can influence hive management practices and the health of colonies.

The other options illustrate different behaviors related to nectar and pollination but do not capture the essence of what nectar robbing involves. Pollinating flowers from different colonies refers to the natural process of bees transferring pollen as they gather nectar, sharing nectar among colonies could suggest a more cooperative interaction, and extracting nectar from flowers describes foraging rather than the aggressive resource pilfering that defines nectar robbing.