Mealybug

Typically found on the stems, leaves, and roots of indoor and outdoor plants, as well as in greenhouse environments.

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap (phloem).

They are slow-moving insects often covered in a white, waxy, cotton-like secretion for protection. They tend to cluster in hidden areas of plants, such as leaf axils or under bark, and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew.

Significant plant pests that can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop; honeydew promotes the growth of black sooty mold. They pose no direct risk to humans or pets but are detrimental to agriculture and gardening.