What's eating my aloe hereroensis?

Aloe hereroensis (sand aloe) is a clumping Namibian species kept as a houseplant. Mealybugs are the most likely pest, especially in the clustered rosette gaps. Scale insects also appear on this species. Its arid origins mean it handles drought well but suffers in wet soil, which invites root mealybugs and fungus gnats.

White cottony deposits between clustered rosettes and at leaf bases; yellowing and soft wilting of affected leaves Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; spray neem oil over whole plant; separate offsets if pest has spread; repeat weekly

Hard waxy bumps on leaf surfaces; honeydew and sooty mould; gradual decline if untreated Remove with soft brush; apply neem oil or horticultural oil spray every 7–10 days

Larvae damage fine roots in wet or peat-heavy soil; adults hover around plant and soil surface Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; apply Bti drench; use yellow sticky traps; top-dress with coarse grit or perlite