When are the wax glands of honeybees most fully developed?

The wax glands of honeybees, which are responsible for producing beeswax, reach their peak development during the period of 12 to 16 days after emergence. During this time, worker bees transition from their initial roles within the hive to those that involve building comb and storing food, making them essential for the hive's infrastructure.

Prior to this peak period, right after emergence, the wax glands are not fully functional, as the bees have not yet reached the appropriate age for comb-building tasks. Although they may begin to mature in the days following their emergence, it is not until around 12 to 16 days that they develop the capacity to produce sufficient quantities of wax. After this peak developmental phase, the wax glands typically begin to regress as the bees age and take on different roles within the colony. This physiological stage is crucial for the hive development and maintenance, highlighting the importance of timing in the lifecycle of honeybees.