Panda Corydoras: The Gentle Clowns of the Aquarium

With their adorable “eye patches” and active group behavior, Panda Corydoras are a delightful species that bring life and harmony to any freshwater community tank. These small, bottom-dwelling catfish are hardy, easy to care for, and incredibly social—perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these tiny pandas such a popular pick in home aquariums.

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Meet the Panda Cory

Named for their black markings over the eyes and near the tail, reminiscent of a panda bear’s face, the Panda Corydoras originates from Peru, specifically from the upper Amazon River basin. They belong to the Corydoradinae subfamily and are one of the smallest and most peaceful species of cory catfish.

Quick Facts:

• Scientific name: Corydoras panda

• Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–8 years (sometimes longer with good care)

• Temperament: Peaceful and social

• Tank level: Bottom-dweller

They’re not just cute—they’re also great community fish that get along well with nearly any peaceful tank mate.

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Ideal Tank Setup

Panda Cories are small but active and social, so they need space to explore and a group of their own kind to feel secure and happy.

Tank Size:

• Minimum tank size: 15–20 gallons for a small group

• Recommended group size: 6 or more (they’re schooling fish)

Environment:

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel (they like to dig and root around)

• Décor: Plants, driftwood, rocks, and caves—anything that gives them cover

• Lighting: Moderate (dimmable lighting or shaded areas preferred)

• Filtration: Gentle, well-oxygenated flow; sponge filters are great for planted or nano tanks

They thrive in tanks that mimic the soft, slow-moving streams of their natural habitat.

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Water Parameters

Panda Corydoras prefer clean, stable water conditions and are sensitive to poor water quality, especially elevated nitrate levels.

Ideal Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 70–77°F (21–25°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Hardness: Soft to moderate

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm (crucial)

• Nitrates: Below 20 ppm

Weekly water changes (20–30%) are important to maintain health and vibrant behavior.

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Diet: Bottom-Feeder but Not an Afterthought

Panda Corys are omnivores and should be fed a balanced diet that reaches the tank floor.

Best Foods:

• Sinking pellets or wafers (specifically for bottom-feeders)

• Frozen or live foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Blanched vegetables: Zucchini, spinach, or cucumber (as an occasional treat)

Avoid relying on leftover food from top feeders—Panda Corys need their own meals, and a varied diet keeps them healthy and colorful.

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Behavior: Peaceful and Playful

Panda Corydoras are known for their sociable and playful behavior. They’re most active in the mornings and evenings, often seen swimming in small groups, digging in the substrate, or darting up to the surface for gulps of air.

Yes—they breathe atmospheric air! Like many catfish, they have a modified intestine that allows them to gulp oxygen from the surface, especially in low-oxygen conditions (though they still need a well-aerated tank).

Social Behavior:

• Schooling species—they are happiest in groups of 6 or more

• Peaceful with other species

• Excellent choice for community tanks

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Compatible Tank Mates

Because of their calm and gentle nature, Panda Corys are perfect for peaceful community aquariums.

Ideal Tank Mates:

• Tetras (like Neon, Ember, or Cardinal Tetras)

• Rasboras

• Guppies and Mollies

• Dwarf Gouramis

• Other Corydoras species

• Shrimp and snails (they usually leave inverts alone)

Avoid:

• Large, aggressive fish (like cichlids or aggressive barbs)

• Rough substrate or strong currents

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Breeding Panda Corys

Breeding Panda Corys in captivity is possible—and very rewarding!

Breeding Tips:

• Provide slightly cooler water (simulate rainy season)

• Feed a protein-rich diet before breeding

• Condition males and females in a well-planted breeding tank

• Once eggs are laid (usually on glass or plants), remove adults to prevent egg-eating

The fry are tiny and require infusoria or powdered fry food initially, then can move on to baby brine shrimp.

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Final Thoughts

The Panda Corydoras is the perfect mix of cute, peaceful, and practical. They're a joy to watch, easy to care for with a little attention to water quality, and a great choice for community tanks.

Whether you're a beginner looking for your first bottom-dweller or an experienced hobbyist assembling a peaceful South American biotope, the Panda Cory brings charm, social behavior, and visual appeal to the underwater world.

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Pro Tip: A sand substrate and a group of 6+ Panda Cories will lead to the most natural, healthy, and entertaining behavior. They’ll reward you with adorable group antics and a happy, thriving school.

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