Mealybug

Warm, moist environments; often found on houseplants, greenhouses, and agricultural crops worldwide.

Herbivorous; they pierce plant tissues and suck out the sap (phloem), weakening the host plant.

Slow-moving; females and nymphs secrete a white, powdery waxy coating for protection. They often cluster in hidden areas of plants, like leaf axils or under bark. They reproduce rapidly in warm conditions.

Significant plant pests that cause leaf yellowing, stunted growth, and death. They excrete 'honeydew' which promotes the growth of black sooty mold and attracts ants. They offer no significant benefits to humans.