L340 Mega Clown Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. L340)

Description

L340 Mega Clown Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. L340)

A rare collector's Pleco with intricate cream and black maze-like markings, the L340 Mega Clown Pleco is one of the most beautiful members of the Hypancistrus family. Compact, peaceful and full of personality, this premium L-number Pleco is perfect for aquarists looking for a standout bottom dweller that remains a manageable size.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Hypancistrus sp. L340
  • Common name: L340 Mega Clown Pleco
  • Current size: Approximately 4–5 cm
  • Adult size: 8–10 cm
  • Tank size: 80L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: 🟡 Intermediate
  • Temperament: Peaceful but territorial with other Plecos
  • Best kept: Individually, compatible pairs or carefully planned groups with multiple caves

Is this for you?

✔️ Perfect if:

  • You collect rare L-number Plecos.
  • You have a mature, well-filtered aquarium.
  • You appreciate unique black and cream patterning.
  • You want a compact Pleco that won't outgrow most home aquariums.

❌ Avoid if:

  • Your aquarium is newly established.
  • You expect your Pleco to survive on algae alone.
  • You plan to house multiple adult Plecos without sufficient hiding places.
  • Your aquarium has poor oxygenation or unstable water quality.

Why choose the L340 Mega Clown Pleco?

The L340 Mega Clown Pleco is highly prized for its spectacular cream and black maze-like markings, with every fish displaying a unique pattern. Unlike common Plecos that grow very large, the L340 remains compact while retaining the striking appearance collectors seek in premium Hypancistrus species.

Naturally found in the fast-flowing waters of the Orinoco River basin, these Plecos spend their days hidden among rocks, caves and driftwood before becoming active after lights out. Their shy but inquisitive nature makes spotting them during evening feeding one of the highlights of owning this species.

Although often referred to as a "Clown Pleco", the L340 is quite different from the common Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus). It is primarily carnivorous and requires a protein-rich diet rather than relying on driftwood or algae for nutrition.

Benefits

  • Rare and highly sought-after L-number Pleco
  • Beautiful maze-like cream and black markings
  • Compact adult size ideal for medium aquariums
  • Peaceful with most community fish
  • Long-lived with proper care
  • Excellent breeding project for experienced aquarists

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 26–30°C
  • pH: 6.0–7.5
  • Diet: Premium carnivore pellets, insectivore foods, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and other protein-rich foods
  • Water: Very clean, highly oxygenated with moderate to strong flow
  • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
  • Setup: Multiple caves, driftwood, rockwork and shaded hiding places
  • Maintain excellent filtration and perform regular water changes.
  • Provide one cave per Pleco if keeping more than one, as males can become territorial.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Corydoras
  • Rummy Nose Tetras
  • Rainbowfish
  • Apistogramma
  • Peaceful community fish
NTA Insight:
The L340 Mega Clown Pleco is one of our favourite collector's Plecos. Its maze-like markings become increasingly defined as it matures, especially when housed over a dark substrate with excellent water quality. Unlike Bristlenose Plecos, this species should never be relied upon for algae control. Feed quality protein-rich foods after lights out and provide plenty of caves—this closely matches its natural behaviour and helps it thrive.

FAQ

Does the L340 Mega Clown Pleco eat algae?

Only occasionally. This species is primarily carnivorous and should be fed high-quality protein-rich foods rather than relying on algae or vegetables.

How large does the L340 Mega Clown Pleco grow?

Most adults reach around 8–10 cm, making them much smaller than many common Pleco species.

Can I keep more than one?

Yes, provided the aquarium contains multiple caves and territories. Adult males can become territorial, particularly during breeding.

Do they need caves?

Absolutely. Like most Hypancistrus, they spend much of the day hiding inside caves or beneath driftwood and become most active after dark.

Are they suitable for beginners?

They are best suited to aquarists with some experience maintaining stable water quality and feeding specialised carnivorous diets.

Can they breed in home aquariums?

Yes. Mature pairs readily spawn inside caves when provided with warm, highly oxygenated water, low dissolved solids and excellent water quality. The male guards the eggs until they hatch.

How long do L340 Mega Clown Plecos live?

With excellent care, stable water conditions and a quality diet, they commonly live for 10 years or more.

L340 Mega Clown Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. L340)

Product form

Out of stock,  

$350.00


All prices include GST
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    Description

    L340 Mega Clown Pleco (Hypancistrus sp. L340)

    A rare collector's Pleco with intricate cream and black maze-like markings, the L340 Mega Clown Pleco is one of the most beautiful members of the Hypancistrus family. Compact, peaceful and full of personality, this premium L-number Pleco is perfect for aquarists looking for a standout bottom dweller that remains a manageable size.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Hypancistrus sp. L340
    • Common name: L340 Mega Clown Pleco
    • Current size: Approximately 4–5 cm
    • Adult size: 8–10 cm
    • Tank size: 80L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: 🟡 Intermediate
    • Temperament: Peaceful but territorial with other Plecos
    • Best kept: Individually, compatible pairs or carefully planned groups with multiple caves

    Is this for you?

    ✔️ Perfect if:

    • You collect rare L-number Plecos.
    • You have a mature, well-filtered aquarium.
    • You appreciate unique black and cream patterning.
    • You want a compact Pleco that won't outgrow most home aquariums.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • Your aquarium is newly established.
    • You expect your Pleco to survive on algae alone.
    • You plan to house multiple adult Plecos without sufficient hiding places.
    • Your aquarium has poor oxygenation or unstable water quality.

    Why choose the L340 Mega Clown Pleco?

    The L340 Mega Clown Pleco is highly prized for its spectacular cream and black maze-like markings, with every fish displaying a unique pattern. Unlike common Plecos that grow very large, the L340 remains compact while retaining the striking appearance collectors seek in premium Hypancistrus species.

    Naturally found in the fast-flowing waters of the Orinoco River basin, these Plecos spend their days hidden among rocks, caves and driftwood before becoming active after lights out. Their shy but inquisitive nature makes spotting them during evening feeding one of the highlights of owning this species.

    Although often referred to as a "Clown Pleco", the L340 is quite different from the common Clown Pleco (Panaqolus maccus). It is primarily carnivorous and requires a protein-rich diet rather than relying on driftwood or algae for nutrition.

    Benefits

    • Rare and highly sought-after L-number Pleco
    • Beautiful maze-like cream and black markings
    • Compact adult size ideal for medium aquariums
    • Peaceful with most community fish
    • Long-lived with proper care
    • Excellent breeding project for experienced aquarists

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 26–30°C
    • pH: 6.0–7.5
    • Diet: Premium carnivore pellets, insectivore foods, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and other protein-rich foods
    • Water: Very clean, highly oxygenated with moderate to strong flow
    • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
    • Setup: Multiple caves, driftwood, rockwork and shaded hiding places
    • Maintain excellent filtration and perform regular water changes.
    • Provide one cave per Pleco if keeping more than one, as males can become territorial.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Corydoras
    • Rummy Nose Tetras
    • Rainbowfish
    • Apistogramma
    • Peaceful community fish
    NTA Insight:
    The L340 Mega Clown Pleco is one of our favourite collector's Plecos. Its maze-like markings become increasingly defined as it matures, especially when housed over a dark substrate with excellent water quality. Unlike Bristlenose Plecos, this species should never be relied upon for algae control. Feed quality protein-rich foods after lights out and provide plenty of caves—this closely matches its natural behaviour and helps it thrive.

    FAQ

    Does the L340 Mega Clown Pleco eat algae?

    Only occasionally. This species is primarily carnivorous and should be fed high-quality protein-rich foods rather than relying on algae or vegetables.

    How large does the L340 Mega Clown Pleco grow?

    Most adults reach around 8–10 cm, making them much smaller than many common Pleco species.

    Can I keep more than one?

    Yes, provided the aquarium contains multiple caves and territories. Adult males can become territorial, particularly during breeding.

    Do they need caves?

    Absolutely. Like most Hypancistrus, they spend much of the day hiding inside caves or beneath driftwood and become most active after dark.

    Are they suitable for beginners?

    They are best suited to aquarists with some experience maintaining stable water quality and feeding specialised carnivorous diets.

    Can they breed in home aquariums?

    Yes. Mature pairs readily spawn inside caves when provided with warm, highly oxygenated water, low dissolved solids and excellent water quality. The male guards the eggs until they hatch.

    How long do L340 Mega Clown Plecos live?

    With excellent care, stable water conditions and a quality diet, they commonly live for 10 years or more.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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