Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda) – Care Sheet

Overview

The Panda Corydoras is one of the most charming freshwater catfish, instantly recognizable by its striking black patches over the eyes and tail, resembling the markings of a giant panda. Originating from the cool, flowing rivers of Peru, these small, peaceful catfish are favorites among aquarists for their playful personality, active bottom-dwelling behavior, and suitability for community tanks.

Basic Info

• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
• Lifespan: 5–7 years in captivity (longer with excellent care)
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy but active in groups
• Schooling Needs: Best kept in shoals of 6 or more
• Activity Level: Very active, constantly scavenging the substrate

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons for a group
• Shape Preference: Long tanks with floor space are better than tall tanks
• Substrate: Fine sand is ideal—sharp gravel can damage their delicate barbels
• Decor: Provide hiding spots with driftwood, caves, smooth stones, and dense plants
• Filtration: Gentle flow, clean and oxygen-rich water
• Lighting: Dim to moderate—bright lighting should be softened with floating plants

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F); cooler water compared to many tropical fish
• pH Range: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2–12 dGH)
• Water Quality: Sensitive to poor conditions—require regular water changes (25–30% weekly)

Diet

Panda Corydoras are omnivorous scavengers, but they cannot live on leftovers alone. They need a varied diet to stay healthy.

• Staple Foods: High-quality sinking pellets or wafers designed for bottom feeders
• Supplements: Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia) to mimic their natural diet
• Vegetable Matter: Blanched peas, cucumber, or zucchini as occasional treats
• Feeding Frequency: Small meals once or twice daily—remove uneaten food to avoid fouling the substrate

Tank Mates

Panda Corydoras are peaceful community fish and get along well with similarly non-aggressive species.

• Good Tank Mates: Tetras, rasboras, guppies, platies, mollies, dwarf gouramis, peaceful dwarf cichlids
• Avoid: Aggressive or large predatory fish (oscars, large cichlids), fin-nippers (tiger barbs)

Care Tips

• Always keep in groups—single Pandas become stressed and inactive
• Ensure substrate is soft and smooth to protect barbels from infection
• Provide plenty of hiding places, but also open swimming areas at the bottom
• Avoid using copper-based medications—they are toxic to Corydoras
• Watch for barbel erosion and sluggish behavior—signs of poor substrate or dirty water

Why Keep Panda Corydoras?

• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Unique panda-like markings make them stand out
• Entertaining, social behavior when kept in groups
• Help clean up uneaten food at the bottom of the tank
• Hardy and adaptable, making them great for both beginners and experienced aquarists

The Panda Corydoras is a playful, gentle, and highly social catfish, adding both charm and activity to peaceful aquariums.