Our Guide To Keeping Panda Cory Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Corydoras panda
   • Common name: Panda Cory
   • Family: Callichthyidae
   • Origin: South America, specifically found in the upper reaches of the Rio Pachitea drainage in Peru
   • Adult length: 4.5 cm (1.8 inches)
   • Lifespan: 5 years or more with proper care

2. Tank Setup:

   • Panda Corys prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation.
   • A tank size of at least 20 gallons (75 litres) is recommended for a small group of these fish.
   • Provide a substrate of fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate barbels.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Panda Corys thrive in tropical freshwater conditions with a temperature range of 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).
   • Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.
   • Ensure good water quality with regular water changes and filtration.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Provide gentle to moderate water flow in the tank, as Panda Corys prefer slow-moving water.
   • Use a filtration system that won't create strong currents, as these fish inhabit calm waters in nature.

5. Diet:

   • Panda Corys are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods.
   • Offer them a balanced diet of high-quality sinking pellets or granules as a staple food.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for optimal health and coloration.

6. Tank mates:

   • Panda Corys are peaceful bottom-dwelling fish that do well in community tanks.
   • They can be kept with other peaceful fish species that occupy different levels of the tank, such as tetras, rasboras, and small peaceful cichlids.
   • Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive species that may intimidate or outcompete them for food.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Panda Corys are social fish that should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals to thrive.
   • They are active during the day and spend most of their time scavenging the bottom of the tank for food.
   • Compatible tank mates include other peaceful community fish that won't outcompete them for food or harass them.