Scale insect

Dactylopius cacti
Diaspis cacti

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Identification

Typically volcano-like bumps over the surface of the plant, which don't move.

Scales cause damage by sucking plant fluids from leaves but they also look very unsightly

Prevention

Quarantine new plants to avoid introducing scale to your collection

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Scale on Caralluma


Cure

Bayer Provado Ultimate Bug Killer, Scotts Miracle-Gro BugClear Ultra or Westland Horticulture Plant Rescue For Ornamental Plants.
Biological control is available for plants growing in greenhouses or conservatories, using either nematodes or a parasitic wasp (Metaphycus helvolus). See suppliers for a list of suppliers.

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