A popular, distinctly striped dwarf pleco native to Venezuela. It is a strictly wood-eating species (xylivore); real driftwood is mandatory for its survival and digestion. Because of this diet, it produces massive amounts of sawdust-like waste, requiring excellent mechanical filtration despite its small size. They are shy and predominantly nocturnal.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard adult form. Males may develop longer odontodes (bristle-like hairs) on their back half as they mature, but care requirements between sexes are identical. Must be provided with multiple driftwood caves to prevent territorial disputes with other bottom dwellers.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Wild Type
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesClown Pleco (L104) Care Guide Summary
The Clown Pleco (L104), scientifically known as Panaqolus maccus, belongs to the Catfish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 9 cm and have a depressed body shape with a slow growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Clown Pleco (L104) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 23°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.8 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Clown Pleco (L104) is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Clown Pleco (L104) is typically available in one standard form.
Clown Pleco (L104) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Clown Pleco (L104), a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement.
Clown Pleco (L104) Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Clown Pleco (L104) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited and boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Clown Pleco (L104).
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions About Clown Pleco (L104)
How big does Clown Pleco (L104) get?
Clown Pleco (L104) (Panaqolus maccus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 9 cm. They have a depressed body shape and a slow growth rate.
What tank size does Clown Pleco (L104) need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm are recommended for Clown Pleco (L104). This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Clown Pleco (L104) need?
Clown Pleco (L104) thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 23–28°C, a pH between 6 and 7.8, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Clown Pleco (L104) peaceful or aggressive?
Clown Pleco (L104) is classified as mostly peaceful with an aggression score of 3 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Clown Pleco (L104) live alone?
Yes, Clown Pleco (L104) can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Clown Pleco (L104) have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Clown Pleco (L104) benefits from driftwood (digestion/hiding) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Similar Species
Royal Pleco (L190)
Panaque nigrolineatus
A stunning, large-growing pleco famous for its red eyes, grey/green coloration, and dark horizontal stripes. Belonging to the genus Panaque, they are xylophagous (obligate wood-eaters); real driftwood in the aquarium is absolutely essential for their digestion and survival. They produce extreme amounts of sawdust-like waste and require heavy, high-flow filtration.
Zebra Pleco (L046)
Hypancistrus zebra
A highly sought-after, strikingly beautiful black-and-white striped pleco endemic to the fast-flowing Xingu River in Brazil. Unlike common plecostomus, it is primarily carnivorous (a micropredator) and will not clean algae. They are notoriously shy, slow-growing, and require highly oxygenated, warm water with vigorous flow to thrive.
Gold Nugget Pleco (L018)
Baryancistrus xanthellus
A stunning, highly sought-after Loricariid native to the fast-flowing, highly oxygenated waters of the Rio Xingu in Brazil. They feature a dark body covered in bright yellow spots with thick yellow seams on their dorsal and caudal fins. They require high temperatures, high water flow, and a diet rich in biofilm, aufwuchs, and fresh vegetables. They are notoriously territorial towards other bottom-dwellers.
Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus cirrhosus
A highly popular, hardy, and relatively small suckermouth catfish. Excellent algae eaters that stay much smaller than Common Plecos, making them suitable for standard aquariums. They require dietary wood (driftwood) to aid in digestion and plenty of hiding caves.
Common Pleco
Hypostomus plecostomus
A heavily armored, nocturnal catfish famous for eating algae. However, they grow incredibly large, produce massive amounts of waste, and frequently outgrow standard aquariums. They require driftwood in their diet for digestion. As they age, they may become territorial or develop a taste for the slime coat of slow-moving, flat-bodied tank mates.
Clown Knifefish
Chitala ornata
A massive, nocturnal predator native to Southeast Asia, widely known for the distinct row of ocellated spots above its anal fin. While sold as small silvery cute juveniles, they grow incredibly fast into nearly 1-meter giants that require immense aquariums. They are obligate carnivores and will eat any fish small enough to fit in their large mouths. They are shy during the day and require large hiding tubes or caves.