🤡 Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus, L104)
🤡 Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus, L104)
Striped • Dwarf • Wood-Eating
📋 The Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus, L104) is a dwarf wood-eating pleco with a striped orange and black “clown” pattern. Native to Venezuela’s Rio Apuré and Rio Orinoco, it is one of the most popular small plecos for aquariums due to its manageable size and striking pattern.
Reaching only 3–4 inches, the Clown Pleco is peaceful and perfect for community and planted aquariums. It is a true xylophage (wood eater), needing driftwood in the tank both as food and shelter. Hardy, attractive, and easy to keep, the Clown Pleco is a favorite beginner L-number pleco.
💡 Highlights
🤡 Striped Pattern – Orange & black bands
🌿 Wood Eater – Needs driftwood to thrive
🐟 Dwarf Pleco – Only 3–4 inches
✅ Community Friendly – Peaceful tank mate
💎 Popular Beginner Pleco – Hardy & small
🧾 A Quick Look at the Clown Pleco (L104)
📛 Common Name: Clown Pleco
🔬 Scientific Name: Panaqolus maccus (L104)
👨👩👧 Family: Loricariidae
🌍 Origin: Venezuela – Rio Apuré & Rio Orinoco
📏 Max Size: 8 – 10 cm (3 – 4")
💧 pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)
🧠 Care Level: Beginner to Intermediate
💖 Temperament: Peaceful, community safe
🏠 Min Tank Size: 80 L (20+ US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Bottom dweller
🧬 Captive Bred: ✅ Yes
🌿 Wild Caught: ❌ No
⏳ Lifespan: 8 – 12 years
🍽️ Diet: Herbivore – wood grazer, algae, veggies
🐣 Reproduction: Possible in aquariums with caves
