What's eating my calathea ornata 'sanderiana'?

Calathea Ornata 'Sanderiana' is most often attacked by spider mites, which dull its iconic pink-striped pattern. Thrips cause silver surface scars, while mealybugs colonise the bases of the long petioles. Fungus gnats are a frequent issue in warm, moist conditions. High humidity is both a cultural requirement and the best pest prevention.

Pale stippling across the dark leaf background; pink stripes appear faded; webbing underneath Increase humidity; shower the plant; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days

Silver streaks and scarring on upper leaf; small dark frass; deformed emerging leaves Spray with spinosad or insecticidal soap; use blue sticky traps; repeat weekly for 4–6 weeks

White waxy fluff at stem and petiole bases; yellowing and sticky honeydew Dab with isopropyl alcohol; spray with neem oil; re-inspect after 10 days

Root damage from larvae in wet compost; adults visible above soil Water less frequently; apply Bti drench; use yellow sticky traps at soil level