Bees absolutely produce wax. This natural substance, known as beeswax, forms the foundation of a bee colony’s entire structure and is indispensable for its survival. Beeswax provides a versatile building material that enables honey bees to construct their intricate nests. Without this remarkable substance, the complex social organization and life cycle within a beehive would not be possible.
The Biological Process of Wax Production
Wax Secretion
Honey bees create beeswax through a specialized biological process. Young worker bees, typically between 12 and 20 days old, are the primary wax producers in a colony. These bees possess eight wax-producing glands, located on the underside of their abdomens. Liquid wax is secreted from these glands and hardens into small, translucent flakes, often referred to as scales, upon contact with the air.
Wax Manipulation and Energy Cost
Bees then use their legs to transfer these tiny flakes to their mandibles, where they chew and manipulate the wax, mixing it with saliva and enzymes to make it pliable for construction. This mechanical processing and addition of substances can cause the initially clear wax to become opaque and acquire a yellowish tint. Producing beeswax is an energy-intensive process for bees. It is estimated that bees consume between 6 to 8 pounds of honey to produce just one pound of wax. The colony also maintains a specific temperature, typically between 91°F and 97°F (33°C and 36°C), within the hive to ensure the wax remains soft and workable for construction.
The Essential Role of Beeswax in the Colony
Beeswax serves as the fundamental building material for the bee colony, forming the structure known as honeycomb. Bees construct this honeycomb with hexagonal cells. The hexagonal shape is highly efficient, allowing bees to maximize storage space while using the least amount of wax.
These cells fulfill several functions within the hive. They are used by the bees to store honey, the colony’s primary food source, and also house stored pollen, another nutrient. Beyond food storage, the hexagonal cells provide protected spaces for the bee brood, which includes eggs, larvae, and pupae. Beeswax is integral to the colony’s ability to raise its young. The hive’s structural integrity, including food reserves and the nursery for developing bees, relies on this secreted wax.
Human Applications of Beeswax
Humans have utilized beeswax for various purposes due to its unique properties. One common application is in the production of candles, which burn cleanly without releasing harmful chemicals. Beeswax’s natural fragrance and long burn time make it a preferred choice for many.
Beeswax is also a popular ingredient in the cosmetics industry, where it is found in products like lip balms, lotions, and moisturizers. Its ability to create a protective barrier on the skin while allowing it to breathe makes it beneficial for skin care. Additionally, beeswax is used in polishes for wood and leather, providing both shine and protection.
Other applications include its use in food wraps as a sustainable alternative to plastic, as a lubricant for various materials, and even in some industrial and medical products like surgical bone wax. Beeswax is also approved as a food additive (E901), functioning as a glazing agent to prevent water loss and protect certain foods.
The harvesting of beeswax by beekeepers is typically done sustainably, often collected from wax cappings removed during honey extraction or from old comb that bees no longer need. This approach ensures the well-being of the bee colony.