Clown Pleco (L104) – Panaqolus maccus

Scientific Name: Panaqolus maccus

The Clown Pleco is a small and beautifully patterned freshwater catfish known for its bold bands of brown, black, and golden coloration. Its compact adult size and peaceful nature make it an excellent specialty pleco for planted tanks and community aquariums without the massive size requirements of many larger pleco species.

Clown Plecos spend much of their time exploring driftwood, rocks, caves, and other surfaces throughout the aquarium. Driftwood is an especially important part of their environment, as these plecos naturally rasp and graze on wood along with biofilm and other organic material.

Care Level: Easy–Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Adult Size: Approximately 3.5–4 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Temperature: 73–82°F
pH: 6.5–7.5
Diet: Omnivore / Wood & Biofilm Grazer

Recommended Setup: A well-filtered, established aquarium with plenty of driftwood, caves, shaded hiding areas, and surfaces for grazing. Supplement their natural grazing with quality sinking foods, algae wafers, vegetable-based foods, and occasional protein-rich foods.

Important: Clown Plecos should not be purchased solely for algae control. While they graze on biofilm and organic material, they are especially adapted for feeding on and around submerged wood and should always have access to driftwood.

Please Note: Live fish naturally vary in size, coloration, pattern, and appearance. The fish you receive may not look exactly like the individual pictured.

All livestock from Felipe’s Fish is carefully selected and prepared for safe transport. Please review our shipping and Live Arrival Guarantee policies before ordering.