Corydoras Panda (Corydoras panda)

Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda) is a peaceful, sociable, and hardy bottom-dwelling catfish native to the Ucayali River basin in Peru. Its distinctive black-and-white markings resemble a panda bear, making it a favorite among aquarists.

 Key Characteristics

• Size: Up to 5 cm (2 inches)
• Lifespan: 5–10 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, social, bottom-dweller
• Activity: Diurnal with occasional surface breathing
• Appearance: Silvery-white body with black patches over eyes, dorsal fin, and tail base

 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: 2–12 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group; ideally 20+ gallons for a school

 Tank Setup

• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel to protect delicate barbels
• Plants: Java moss, Anubias, Amazon swords; floating plants to diffuse light
• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves for hiding
• Filtration: Moderate flow to mimic river currents
• Lighting: Moderate; shaded areas preferred

 Diet

• Type: Omnivore and scavenger
• Staple: Sinking pellets or tablets
• Supplements: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, vegetable matter
• Feeding Tips: Feed at night; ensure food reaches the bottom

 Breeding

• Type: Egg-layer
• Spawning Trigger: Cooler water change simulating rainy season
• Egg Count: Up to 100 sticky eggs
• Hatch Time: ~4 days
• Fry Care: Feed infusoria or fry food; maintain stable temperature

 Compatible Tankmates

• Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Cherry Barbs, White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Kuhli Loaches, Otocinclus, Ember Tetras, Endler’s Livebearers
• Avoid aggressive or large fish like Tiger Barbs

 Social Needs

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior