What's eating my tanquana hilmarii?

Tanquana hilmarii is a rare South African mesemb grown indoors. Like related livingstone-type succulents, it is most at risk from mealybugs hiding between its fleshy paired lobes. Root mealybugs can devastate the root system undetected. Spider mites emerge in hot, dry indoor conditions. Close inspection at each watering is essential.

White waxy fluff lodged in the crevice between lobes and at the plant base; bodies shrivel and weaken Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with a fine swab; spray the whole plant with neem oil emulsion; repeat weekly

Plant fails to plump up after watering; white powdery deposits found on roots when the plant is unpotted Remove all old compost, soak roots in dilute imidacloprid or neem solution, repot in sterile mineral mix

Minute pale speckling on the body surfaces; fine webbing visible at the lobe crevice in dry heat Wipe surfaces gently with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap spray; improve local air circulation