What's eating my tanquana prismatica?

Tanquana prismatica, a compact South African mesemb, is most commonly attacked by mealybugs hiding between its tightly packed triangular leaves. Root mealybugs and spider mites are secondary threats. Fungus gnats can colonize if soil stays too damp. Overwatering invites more problems than most pests combined — keep it bone-dry.

White cottony wax clusters tucked between leaves or at the stem base; leaves yellow or wither as bugs drain sap Dab individual colonies with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with a diluted neem oil drench; repeat every 7–10 days

Hidden white waxy coating on roots; plant wilts or stalls despite correct watering Unpot, shake off all soil, rinse roots, treat with imidacloprid drench or systemic granules, repot into fresh dry succulent mix

Stippled, silvery leaf surfaces with fine webbing visible in low humidity or warm indoor conditions Wipe leaves with a damp cloth, then spray with diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation