The Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus) is a compact freshwater pleco with bold orange and dark banding, a peaceful temperament, and plenty of personality. Staying around 3–4 inches, it's an excellent choice for aquarists who want the look and behavior of a pleco without the size of many larger species.
Clown Plecos are most at home in planted or natural-style aquariums with driftwood, caves, and plenty of cover. They're primarily active in the evening and at night, spending much of the day tucked into a favorite hiding place before coming out to explore and feed.
Care Information
Scientific Name:Panaqolus maccus
Adult Size: About 3–4 inches
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: Bottom
Diet: Omnivore with a strong preference for wood and plant-based foods
Recommended Group: 1+
Temperature: 72–82°F
pH: Approximately 6.5–7.8
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Lifespan: Approximately 8–12 years
Best For: Planted aquariums, peaceful community tanks, natural aquascapes, and tanks with driftwood.
Driftwood is especially important for Clown Plecos and should be considered part of their habitat rather than just decoration. A varied diet can include quality sinking foods, algae wafers, vegetables, and occasional protein-rich foods.
They're generally peaceful with other fish, though multiple plecos should have enough caves, driftwood, and territory to establish their own spaces.
The Reserved Aquatics Standard
Clown Plecos may not be the rarest fish in our reserves, but that doesn't mean we'll stock just any of them. We look for healthy, well-conditioned fish with strong patterning and good overall appearance. Every Clown Pleco is cared for in our own systems before being offered for sale.
Quality Worth Keeping.
IN-PERSON SALES ONLY
The Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus) is a compact freshwater pleco with bold orange and dark banding, a peaceful temperament, and plenty of personality. Staying around 3–4 inches, it's an excellent choice for aquarists who want the look and behavior of a pleco without the size of many larger species.
Clown Plecos are most at home in planted or natural-style aquariums with driftwood, caves, and plenty of cover. They're primarily active in the evening and at night, spending much of the day tucked into a favorite hiding place before coming out to explore and feed.
Care Information
Scientific Name:Panaqolus maccus
Adult Size: About 3–4 inches
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: Bottom
Diet: Omnivore with a strong preference for wood and plant-based foods
Recommended Group: 1+
Temperature: 72–82°F
pH: Approximately 6.5–7.8
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Lifespan: Approximately 8–12 years
Best For: Planted aquariums, peaceful community tanks, natural aquascapes, and tanks with driftwood.
Driftwood is especially important for Clown Plecos and should be considered part of their habitat rather than just decoration. A varied diet can include quality sinking foods, algae wafers, vegetables, and occasional protein-rich foods.
They're generally peaceful with other fish, though multiple plecos should have enough caves, driftwood, and territory to establish their own spaces.
The Reserved Aquatics Standard
Clown Plecos may not be the rarest fish in our reserves, but that doesn't mean we'll stock just any of them. We look for healthy, well-conditioned fish with strong patterning and good overall appearance. Every Clown Pleco is cared for in our own systems before being offered for sale.
Quality Worth Keeping.
IN-PERSON SALES ONLY
