Invasive European honeybees create a competitive environment for the native bumblebee as their ecological niches (total use of abiotic and biotic resources by the species) overlap; thus, creating niche differentiation (increasing species using resources causes the use of a wider range of resources) between the two species. Invasive and native bees exemplify a symbiotic relationship in which the interaction could be harmful to both species: competition (an interaction in which species use the same resources). Additionally, the invasive European honey bee (Apis mellifera) diminishes the native bumblebee (Bombus Occidentalis) population in northern California by creating niche overlap and competition for available resources in the coastal area (Thomson 2004). In contrast, B. Occidentalis partially utilizes Apis resources; therefore, both species must struggle for a limited availability of resources. Specifically, these two species are experiencing a competitive interaction on consumption: both species compete for nectar and pollen resources. Regarding the competition between these two species in coastal California, efforts must be made to prevent biodiversity loss. Specifically, by studying the patterns and behaviors of invasive and native bees, we can mediate these effects. Humans manage Apis populations through crop pollination and honey and wax production (Harpur et al. 2012). Bees lay their eggs in the wax of the honeycomb; therefore, when humans take wax and honey, they also take bee offspring (Harpur et al. 2012). This ultimately has a negative effect on the Apis bee population as their population is indirectly reduced. Therefore, if the California Coastal Conservan...... middle of paper ......ip of competition, neither species benefits because their interaction causes the other to decrease fitness by having to share resources , which in this case is nectar and pollen (Harpur et al. 2012). Furthermore, human use of Apis wax further decreases their fitness. Since the wax bears offspring, fewer bees are able to grow enough to create fertile offspring. Ultimately, the California Coastal Conservancy will help maintain biological diversity by preventing the loss of an abundance of Apis offspring. Works Cited Harpur, Brock A., Shermineh Minaei, Clement F. Kent, and Amro Zayed. 2012. Management increases honey bee genetic diversity through admixture. Molecular Ecology 21(18): 4414-421.Thomson, Diane. “Competitive interactions between the invasive European honeybee and native bumblebees.” JSTOR. Ecological Society of America, February 2004. Web. 14 October. 2013.