Panda Corydoras (Panda Cory Catfish)

Panda Corydoras are one of the most popular and lovable community catfish in the hobby for good reason. Their bold black-and-cream pattern, peaceful temperament, and active bottom-dwelling behavior make them an excellent addition to planted community aquariums.

At Legacy Line Aquatics, we focus on healthy, well-started fish raised with clean water, proper nutrition, and attention to long-term success—not mass-produced “flip” fish. Panda Corydoras do best in groups and are constantly on the move, foraging the bottom and interacting with one another.

They are a great choice for hobbyists looking to add personality and utility to the lower level of the tank while keeping a peaceful, community-friendly setup.

Why We Love Panda Corydoras

• Striking black-and-cream “panda” markings

• Peaceful and community safe

• Fun, active bottom-dwelling behavior

• Great for planted aquariums

• Best kept in groups (very social species)

Quick Species Overview

• Common Name: Panda Corydoras / Panda Cory Catfish

• Scientific Name: Corydoras panda

• Temperament: Peaceful, social

• Adult Size: Typically around 1.5–2 inches

• Tank Zone: Bottom

• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate

• Lifespan: Commonly 5+ years with proper care

Recommended Tank Setup

Panda Corydoras thrive in clean, stable aquariums with gentle-to-moderate flow and soft, smooth substrate.

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallon long recommended for a proper group

• Best Group Size: 6+ (the more the better)

• Substrate: Fine sand preferred (best for barbels and natural foraging)

• Décor: Driftwood, plants, shaded areas, open bottom space to forage

• Filtration: Strong biological filtration with good oxygenation

• Flow: Gentle to moderate (avoid blasting them around)

Water Parameters (General Care)

Panda Corydoras do best with stable water quality and regular maintenance.

• Temperature: 72–76°F ideal (can tolerate slightly warmer, but cooler-stable is preferred)

• pH: 6.5–7.5 (stability matters more than chasing a number)

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0

• Nitrate: Keep low with regular water changes

Feeding

Panda Corydoras are bottom foragers and should be fed a varied diet. Do not rely on “leftovers” from other fish.

Recommended foods:

• Sinking pellets/wafers

• Quality micro pellets

• Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)

• Live foods (excellent for conditioning/breeding groups)

Feed once or twice daily in amounts they can finish, and make sure food reaches the bottom.

Tankmates

Panda Corydoras are ideal for peaceful community aquariums.

Great tankmates include:

• Small rasboras

• Tetras

• Danios (peaceful species)

• Dwarf cichlids (in appropriate setups)

• Other peaceful Corydoras

• Peaceful livebearers

Avoid:

• Aggressive cichlids

• Fin-nippers

• Large predators

• Rough/abrasive substrate

Important Care Notes

• Panda Corydoras are schooling fish and should not be kept alone.

• They are sensitive to poor water quality and sudden changes.

• A clean tank, stable parameters, and proper acclimation are key to success.

• Fine sand helps protect barbels and encourages natural behavior.

Shipping & Live Arrival

Live fish are shipped Monday–Wednesday (weather permitting) to reduce transit risk. Please review our How Shipping Works page and DOA policy before ordering.