L340 Peckoltia Sp Mega Clown Peckoltia (Cebra)

Here’s a clear, detailed care guide for L340 Peckoltia sp., commonly known as the Mega Clown Pleco or Cebra Pleco—a beautiful, smaller pleco with bold zebra-like striping.

L340 Mega Clown Pleco (Peckoltia sp. 'L340') Care Guide

Common Names:

• L340 Pleco

• Mega Clown Pleco

• Cebra Pleco

• Zebra Peckoltia (not to be confused with L046 Zebra Pleco)

Scientific Name: Peckoltia sp. (undescribed species)
Origin: Rio Xingu, Brazil (Amazon Basin)
Size: 3.5–4.5 inches (9–11.5 cm)
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Temperament: Peaceful, mildly territorial with similar species

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum for one adult; 30+ for a group

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Decor:

  • Rock caves, driftwood, ceramic pleco tubes

  • Needs plenty of hiding spots and shaded areas

• Plants: Plant-safe—good for planted tanks with shaded areas

• Lighting: Low to moderate; they prefer dim conditions

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–86°F (25.5–30°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.4

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH)

• Filtration: Moderate to strong flow with excellent oxygenation

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly—clean, stable water is essential

Diet

• Feeding Style: Omnivorous with a taste for protein

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking carnivore or omnivore pellets

  • Frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis)

  • Occasional veggies (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily in small amounts

• Note: Not a strong algae grazer—don’t rely on it for cleanup

Behavior & Tankmates

• Activity: Mostly nocturnal, can adapt to low-light activity

• Temperament: Peaceful, but may defend its cave

• Good Tankmates:

  • Tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, Apistogramma, small peaceful cichlids

  • Avoid large, aggressive fish or other plecos competing for territory

• Tip: Provide at least one hiding place per pleco

Breeding

• Spawning Type: Cave spawner

• In Captivity: Successfully bred by hobbyists

• Setup: Use tight-fitting caves, warm soft water, and high-protein diet

• Parental Care: Males guard eggs and fan them

• Fry Feeding: Start with powdered fry food or baby brine shrimp

Care Tips

• Keep driftwood and rocks to mimic their natural habitat

• Provide plenty of tight caves to reduce aggression and stress

• Maintain strong filtration and stable, warm water

• Color and health improve with proper diet and low-stress conditions