[2] This fish is native to Venezuela and Colombia where it is found in the tannic Apuré and Caroní River basins.

The wavy pattern form is found in the actual Orinoco and its tributaries in Bolivar State, Venezuela, while the "normal" patterned P. maccus comes from further north and west (Cojedes, Portuguesa, Guarico, and Apure States) in the Llanos where the drainages run into the Apure River.

[2] Panaqolus maccus is one of the most common species of small, striped loricariids available in the fishkeeping hobby.

Good filtration is needed because of the large amounts of waste they produce, caused by their wood-based diet.

Soft driftwoods and cave formations give ample hiding places for the females to feel comfortable, and they may deposit eggs at some point.