Clown Pleco

Scientific Name

Panaqolus maccus

Common Names

• Clown Pleco
• Ringlet Pleco
• L104 (L-number designation)

Physical Appearance

• Size: Typically 3.5–4 inches (9–10 cm) at full maturity.
• Coloration:
  • Dark brown to black body with bold, irregular yellow or tan stripes.
  • Stripes may vary in pattern and intensity depending on individual genetics.
• Body Shape: Compact, flattened body with a sucker mouth, adapted for scraping algae and wood.

Lifespan

• 10–12 years with proper care.

Temperament and Behavior

• Nature: Peaceful and shy; excellent for community tanks.
• Activity Level:
  • Primarily nocturnal but may become more active during the day once acclimated.
  • Often seen clinging to driftwood or decorations.
• Territoriality: Generally non-aggressive, though males may show mild territorial behavior during breeding.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a single Clown Pleco; larger tanks for groups.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 73–82°F (23–28°C)
  • pH: 6.8–7.6
  • Hardness: 6–10 dGH
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel to prevent injury to their underbelly.
• Plants and Decorations:
  • Driftwood is essential, as Clown Plecos consume wood as part of their diet.
  • Include caves, rocks, or other hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat.
• Filtration: Moderate to strong filtration with well-oxygenated water.

Diet

• Type: Omnivorous with a strong preference for wood and algae.
• Food:
  • Driftwood is a dietary staple, as they graze on it for fiber.
  • Algae wafers, spirulina-based pellets, and sinking pleco-specific foods.
  • Fresh vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and blanched spinach.
  • Occasionally feed protein-rich treats such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Compatibility

• Good Tank Mates:
  • Peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, guppies, or Corydoras.
  • Shrimp and snails.
• Avoid:
  • Aggressive species or territorial bottom-dwellers like large cichlids.

Care Level

• Difficulty: Easy; ideal for beginner to intermediate aquarists.
• Maintenance:
  • Weekly water changes of 20–30%.
  • Driftwood must always be present in the tank.
  • Clean substrate and decorations to prevent buildup of waste.

Breeding

• Reproduction: Cave spawners.
• Setup:
  • Provide narrow caves or hollow logs for breeding.
  • Maintain slightly warmer water (78–80°F) with good water quality.
• Process:
  • Males guard the eggs, which hatch after 5–7 days.
  • Fry can be fed finely crushed algae wafers and blanched vegetables.

Interesting Facts

1. Wood Eaters: Unlike many plecos, Clown Plecos require driftwood as part of their diet, consuming it for fiber and digestive health.
2. Compact Size: Their small size makes them a suitable choice for smaller tanks compared to other pleco species.
3. L-number Identification: Known as L104, L162, or LDA22 in the aquarium trade, these numbers help distinguish them from similar pleco species.