PANDA CORYDORAS CATFISH ( CORYDOTAS PANDA)
Panda Corydoras is a small, peaceful freshwater catfish named for its distinctive black-and-white coloration, which resembles a panda bear. Native to the rivers of Peru, particularly in the Rio Ucayali (Amazon River tributary), this species is highly popular among aquarists due to its playful nature, social behavior, and adaptability to community tanks.
Appearance
Body Color: Pale cream or pinkish-white with three black markings:
One over the eyes (resembling a panda's face).
One at the dorsal fin.
One at the base of the tail (caudal fin).
Size: Reaches up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length.
Body Shape: Compact, armored with bony plates (scutes) for protection.
Barbels: Small, whisker-like barbels around the mouth help with foraging.
Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons for a small group.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 68–77°F (20–25°C) (prefer cooler temperatures than other Corydoras).
pH: 6.0–7.5
GH: 2–12
KH: 2–8
Filtration: Gentle flow with well-oxygenated water (sponge or canister filters work best).
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate barbels.
Aquascape: Provide live plants, driftwood, caves, and shaded areas for a natural habitat.
Diet
Panda Corydoras are omnivorous bottom feeders that thrive on a diverse diet:
Staple Foods: Sinking pellets, wafers, and quality Corydoras-specific food.
Supplementary Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber).
Foraging Behavior: They sift through the substrate in search of food, helping keep the tank clean.
Behavior & Compatibility
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, and social.
Schooling Fish: Best kept in groups of 5 or more for comfort and natural behavior.
Tank Mates: Compatible with small, peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, guppies, and shrimp. Avoid aggressive or large predatory species.
Breeding
Egg Layers: Females attach sticky eggs to plant leaves, decorations, or tank glass.
Breeding Conditions: Cooler water changes and a protein-rich diet encourage spawning.
Hatching Time: Eggs hatch in 3–5 days, and fry feed on infusoria and powdered foods before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.
Conclusion
The Panda Corydoras Catfish is a charming, active, and community-friendly fish that adds personality and movement to an aquarium. Their distinctive panda-like markings, peaceful temperament, and ability to help maintain a clean substrate make them an excellent choice for aquarists of all experience levels.