Panda Corydoras

The Panda Corydoras is a small, peaceful freshwater catfish admired for its charming black-and-white pattern, resembling a panda. Native to the cooler streams of Peru, this species features a creamy white body with distinctive black patches over the eyes, dorsal fin, and tail base. Panda Corydoras are highly social, active bottom dwellers that bring life and movement to community aquariums.

Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda) – Complete Care Guide Description The Panda Corydoras is a small, peaceful freshwater catfish admired for its charming black-and-white pattern, resembling a panda. Native to the cooler streams of Peru, this species features a creamy white body with distinctive black patches over the eyes, dorsal fin, and tail base. Panda Corydoras are highly social, active bottom dwellers that bring life and movement to community aquariums. Water Parameters Providing stable and slightly cooler conditions is key to their health: Temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F) pH: 6.0–7.5 Hardness: 2–12 dGH Tank Size: Minimum 60 liters (15 gallons) Water Flow: Moderate, well-oxygenated water Water Changes: 20–30% weekly Care & Maintenance Panda Corydoras are beginner-friendly but thrive best with proper care: Use a soft sand substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Provide hiding spots like driftwood, caves, and plants. Keep them in groups of at least 6, as they are schooling fish. Maintain excellent water quality—they are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites. Feed a varied diet: sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp). Ensure food reaches the bottom, as they are bottom feeders. Behaviour & Temperament Extremely peaceful and social species. Active bottom dwellers, often seen foraging in groups. Display playful and energetic swimming, especially in groups. Non-territorial and non-aggressive. Thrive in calm, stress-free environments. Compatibility Panda Corydoras are ideal for peaceful community tanks: Compatible with small, non-aggressive fish. Prefer tank mates that occupy mid and upper levels. Avoid aggressive or large predatory species. Best kept in groups for natural behavior and reduced stress. Suitable Tank Mates Small tetras (Neon, Ember, Rummy Nose) Rasboras Guppies, mollies, platies Dwarf cichlids (like Apistogramma, Rams) Other peaceful bottom dwellers (small loaches) Tank Mates to Avoid Large aggressive cichlids (e.g., Oscars, African cichlids) Fin-nipping fish Predatory fish that may see them as food Very active or boisterous species that may stress them Pro Tips Always keep in groups of 6 or more—they become shy when kept alone. Use dim lighting or shaded areas to mimic their natural habitat. Add leaf litter or driftwood for a natural feel and added comfort. Avoid sharp gravel—can damage their barbels and cause infections. Ensure good oxygenation, as they thrive in well-aerated water. Occasionally, they may dart to the surface to gulp air—this is normal behavior. Summary Panda Corydoras are adorable, peaceful, and highly social bottom dwellers that make an excellent addition to community aquariums. With proper care, a soft substrate, and a friendly group environment, they thrive and display delightful, active behavior that enhances any tank setup.