The wax bees that build the alveoli possess eight wax glands located on the inner part of the sternites of the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th segments of their abdomen. These glands reach their maximum development around their 12th day of life and begin to decrease from the 18th or 19th day. During this short period, the wax bees produce scales of wax which they knead with their mandibles by incorporating a solvent of salivary origin. The substance obtained enters the construction of the combs and is used to seal the cells filled with honey. To produce 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of wax, the bees consume 15.4 to 17.6 lbs (7 to 8 kg) of honey.