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About the Panda Corydoras

The Panda Corydoras is one of the most recognisable and popular Corydoras species in the aquarium hobby. Named after its distinctive black eye patches and black markings on the dorsal fin and tail, this charming South American catfish is a favourite for planted and community aquariums.

Native to the cool, fast-flowing tributaries of Peru, Panda Corydoras are peaceful, active fish that spend their day searching the substrate for small insects, worms, and leftover food. Their playful schooling behaviour and gentle temperament make them ideal companions for tetras, rasboras, gouramis, dwarf cichlids, rainbowfish, and peaceful shrimp.

Like all Corydoras, Panda Corys thrive when kept in groups of at least six individuals. They are most comfortable in aquariums with a soft sand substrate, driftwood, rocks, and dense plant cover that allows them to forage naturally without damaging their delicate barbels.

Easy to care for and full of personality, the Panda Corydoras is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to add an active and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish to their freshwater aquarium.

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Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Corydoras panda

Common Name

Panda Corydoras

Origin

Peru (Upper Amazon Basin)

Adult Size

5–5.5 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

60 Litres

Temperature

20–26°C

pH

6.0–7.5

Water Hardness

2–12 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

5–10 Years

Suitable For

Community aquariums, planted tanks, and shrimp aquariums

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many Panda Corydoras should I keep?

Panda Corydoras are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups of at least six. Larger groups encourage natural behaviour and make the fish more confident.

What do Panda Corydoras eat?

They enjoy quality sinking pellets, Corydoras wafers, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, and other sinking foods. They should be fed directly rather than relying on leftovers.

Can Panda Corydoras live with shrimp?

Yes. Panda Corydoras are completely peaceful and make excellent tank mates for Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp, and other dwarf shrimp.

Why do Panda Corydoras swim to the surface?

This is normal behaviour. Corydoras occasionally gulp atmospheric air as part of their natural respiration.

Do Panda Corydoras need sand?

Yes. Fine sand is the ideal substrate, allowing them to sift naturally while protecting their sensitive barbels.

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Common Mistakes

Keeping them alone

Panda Corydoras are highly social and should never be kept individually.

Using sharp gravel

Coarse gravel can damage their barbels and reduce their ability to forage naturally.

Assuming they only eat leftovers

They require dedicated sinking foods to maintain good health.

Keeping them in warm aquariums

Panda Corydoras prefer slightly cooler water than many tropical fish and should not be kept at excessively high temperatures for extended periods.

Poor water quality

Regular water changes, good filtration, and stable water parameters are essential for healthy, active Panda Corydoras.