Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
Minimum Tank
10 Gallons
Adult Size
2 inches
Temperature
68-77°F (20-25°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
10 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Panda Corydoras
The panda corydoras is an endearing small catfish from the clear, cool mountain streams of Peru's Ucayali River system. Its creamy-white body is adorned with three distinctive black patches: one over each eye and one at the base of the tail, creating a pattern reminiscent of a giant panda, which gives it its beloved common name. Panda corys are active, social bottom-dwellers that spend their time bustling about the substrate in search of food particles. They are one of the most popular corydoras species in the hobby, combining charming looks with a gentle, community-friendly temperament. Like all corydoras, they occasionally dash to the surface to gulp air, which is perfectly normal.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 10-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
- • Category: Catfish
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Panda corydoras prefer cooler water than many tropical fish, thriving at 68-77°F, which makes them excellent companions for species that prefer similar temperatures. Keep them in groups of at least six on a smooth sand substrate that protects their delicate barbels. They are somewhat more sensitive than other cory species and do best in mature, well-cycled tanks with stable parameters. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods, ensuring food reaches the bottom. Avoid medications containing copper, as corydoras are highly sensitive to it. Regular water changes and clean substrate are essential, as they spend all their time on the bottom where waste accumulates.
Quick Facts
38L
Min Tank (10gal)
5cm
Adult Size (2")
10yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Panda Corydoras
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Peppered Corydoras
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Sterbai Corydoras
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Julii Corydoras
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Tank Mates for Panda Corydoras
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
easy · 10+ gal
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
moderate · 15+ gal
Black Phantom Tetra
Hyphessobrycon megalopterus
easy · 15+ gal
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Panda Corydoras need?
A Panda Corydoras needs a minimum tank size of 10 gallons (38 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Panda Corydoras need?
Panda Corydoras thrive in water between 68-77°F (20-25°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Panda Corydoras easy to care for?
Panda Corydoras are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 10 years.
How big do Panda Corydoras get and what do they eat?
Panda Corydoras reach about 2 inches and are omnivores. Panda corydoras prefer cooler water than many tropical fish, thriving at 68-77°F, which makes them excellent companions for species that prefer similar temperatures. Keep them in groups of at least six on a smooth sand substrate that protects their delicate barbels. They are somewhat more sensitive than other cory species and do best in mature, well-cycled tanks with stable parameters. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods, ensuring food reaches the bottom. Avoid medications containing copper, as corydoras are highly sensitive to it. Regular water changes and clean substrate are essential, as they spend all their time on the bottom where waste accumulates.