What's eating my jointed pectinaria?

Jointed Pectinaria (Pectinaria articulata) is a rare indoor stapeliad succulent with segmented stems. Like other stapeliads, it is most vulnerable to mealybugs hiding in stem joints and to root mealybugs in wet soil. Spider mites can colonise the stems in dry heated rooms. Inspect every month and maintain excellent drainage.

White woolly deposits wedged in stem joints; segments discolour and may rot if infestation is ignored Apply isopropyl alcohol precisely with a cotton swab; isolate plant and retreat every 7–10 days

Plant shrivels despite not being overwatered; white waxy material on roots at repotting Unpot, clean roots, soak in dilute insecticidal soap, allow to dry fully before repotting in gritty mix

Pale flecking on stem surfaces; fine silk webbing in very hot, dry conditions indoors Improve airflow and ambient humidity, wipe stems with damp cloth, treat with dilute neem oil