Panda Cory Catfish

The Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda) is an adorable and popular catfish species named for its distinctive black-and-white patterning that resembles a giant panda. With their peaceful nature, compact size, and charming appearance, these social bottom-dwellers are perfect for planted aquariums and nano tanks. Active, hardy, and endlessly entertaining to watch, Panda Corydoras make excellent additions to any peaceful community setup.

Care Sheet – Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda)

Temperament

• Peaceful, social schooling fish

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior

Adult Size

• 1.5–2 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 10–15 gallons for a small school

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–77°F

• pH: 6.0–7.2

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous bottom feeder

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality sinking micro-pellets

  • Frozen or live foods: daphnia, baby brine shrimp

  • Crushed flake foods

• Feed small amounts once daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful community and nano tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Small tetras, rasboras, and dwarf corydoras

  • Peaceful shrimp and snails

  • Other small, peaceful community fish

• Avoid aggressive or large fish

Aquarium Setup

• Soft sand substrate essential for barbel health

• Well-planted tanks with hiding places

• Gentle water flow

• Clean, well-maintained water

Care Level

• Easy to moderate

• Good for beginners with established tanks

Lifespan

• 4–6 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Distinctive panda-like black and white markings

• Perfect for planted and nano aquariums

• More sensitive to water conditions than some corydoras

• Very active and entertaining to observe