Description:
The Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus) is a small, attractive freshwater catfish known for its distinctive pattern of dark bands or stripes against a lighter background, resembling a clown’s face paint. It has a streamlined, armored body typical of plecos, with sucker-mouth adapted for attaching to surfaces. Its peaceful nature makes it a popular choice for community aquariums.
Maximum Size:
Clown Plecos typically grow to about 3.5 to 4 inches (9 to 10 cm) in length.
Temperature:
Ideal temperature ranges between 73°F and 81°F (23°C to 27°C).
Water Parameters:
pH: 6.5 to 7.5
Hardness: 2 to 15 dGH
Well-oxygenated, clean water with moderate flow is preferred.
Compatibility:
Clown Plecos are generally peaceful and compatible with a wide range of community fish, including tetras, rasboras, and small gouramis. Avoid housing them with large, aggressive species that may harass or outcompete them. They are bottom dwellers and mostly nocturnal, making them good tank mates with fish occupying different water levels.
Diet:
Clown Plecos are primarily herbivorous wood-eaters; they require driftwood in the tank as part of their diet for fiber digestion. Supplement their diet with sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach), and occasional protein sources like bloodworms or brine shrimp to ensure balanced nutrition.
Description:
The Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus) is a small, attractive freshwater catfish known for its distinctive pattern of dark bands or stripes against a lighter background, resembling a clown’s face paint. It has a streamlined, armored body typical of plecos, with sucker-mouth adapted for attaching to surfaces. Its peaceful nature makes it a popular choice for community aquariums.
Maximum Size:
Clown Plecos typically grow to about 3.5 to 4 inches (9 to 10 cm) in length.
Temperature:
Ideal temperature ranges between 73°F and 81°F (23°C to 27°C).
Water Parameters:
pH: 6.5 to 7.5
Hardness: 2 to 15 dGH
Well-oxygenated, clean water with moderate flow is preferred.
Compatibility:
Clown Plecos are generally peaceful and compatible with a wide range of community fish, including tetras, rasboras, and small gouramis. Avoid housing them with large, aggressive species that may harass or outcompete them. They are bottom dwellers and mostly nocturnal, making them good tank mates with fish occupying different water levels.
Diet:
Clown Plecos are primarily herbivorous wood-eaters; they require driftwood in the tank as part of their diet for fiber digestion. Supplement their diet with sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach), and occasional protein sources like bloodworms or brine shrimp to ensure balanced nutrition.
