Final answer:
The relative advantage of short-tongued bees over long-tongued bees can be influenced by floral variation, resource availability, and competition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relative advantages of short-tongued bees over long-tongued bees can be influenced by several factors. One of these factors is floral variation. Different flowers have different shapes and structures, and some are better suited for certain bee species. Short-tongued bees may have an advantage over long-tongued bees when it comes to accessing nectar in certain flower types.
Another factor that can affect the relative advantage is resource availability. If there is a limited supply of nectar, short-tongued bees may be more efficient at extracting it compared to long-tongued bees.
Additionally, competition can play a role in determining the advantage of one bee species over another. If short-tongued bees are more abundant in a certain area, they may outcompete long-tongued bees for nectar resources.
Overall, the relative advantage of short-tongued bees over long-tongued bees can involve a combination of floral variation, resource availability, and competition.