All fish / Callichthyidae

Panda Corydoras

Corydoras panda

Also known as panda cory, panda corydoras, panda catfish, panda cory catfish, long fin panda cory, longfin panda corydoras, corydoras panda, cory panda, แพนด้า, コリドラス・パンダ, 熊猫鼠, 熊猫兵鼠

A small, pale pinkish white armoured catfish with a black band through the eye, a black patch on the dorsal fin and another at the base of the tail, which gives it a panda-like look. It is popular for its cheerful, busy foraging in groups and its peaceful nature, which suits community tanks.

Care at a glance

Care level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

4.5 cm

Temperature

20 to 25 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

Group of 6 or more

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets and wafers, bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp and other small frozen or live foods

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 10 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Peru: upper Amazon tributaries in the Ucayali and Huallaga basins (Río Pachitea, Río Aguaytía)

Breeding

It lays sticky eggs on glass, plants or decor after the classic corydoras T-position, often triggered by a large cool water change. Spawning is fairly easy in captivity and almost all fish sold are captive bred, though eggs and fry should be moved away from the adults to raise them.

Good to know

Prefers cooler, well-oxygenated water than many tropical fish, so avoid long spells above about 25°C. Use soft sand to protect its sensitive barbels and avoid keeping it with large or nippy tankmates.