Species profile
Clown Pleco
Panaqolus maccus
Peaceful
Easy care
100 L minimum aquarium
7–9 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small wood-specialist pleco. Real bogwood is an essential part of the environment and diet, and the filter must cope with heavy fibrous wood waste.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
Up to 18 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.8
Peaceful toward most fish. Males can squabble over caves, so provide multiple shelters and visual barriers if more than one is kept.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Panaqolus maccus
Alternative names
Clown Plec, Panaque maccus
Native range
Orinoco basin, Venezuela.
Natural habitat
Associated with root tangles and wood near river margins. Use abundant bogwood, caves, subdued lighting, strong filtration and high oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Wood is essential. Also offer vegetables, algae wafers and sinking catfish foods with small amounts of invertebrate protein.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop stronger odontodes along the pectoral fins and body; females are broader when viewed from above.
Breeding
Cave spawner. A male guards the clutch in a tight cave; cool water changes and increased current can help trigger spawning.