The Panda Corydoras is a small, peaceful fish. Its name comes from its black and white markings. It looks like a panda bear. This fish is very popular among fish keepers. It is easy to care for and fun to watch.
Where Do Panda Corydoras Come From?
Panda Corydoras live in South America. They are found in rivers and streams. These waters are usually slow-moving and clear. The bottom is soft with sand or small stones. Plants and tree roots give them places to hide.
How Big Do Panda Corydoras Get?
These fish grow to about 2 inches (5 cm) long. They stay small, so they do well in small tanks. But they like to live in groups. It is best to keep at least six Panda Corys together.
Tank Size for Panda Corydoras
To keep Panda Corydoras happy, you need a good tank size.
| Number of Panda Corydoras | Minimum Tank Size |
|---|---|
| 6 fish | 20 gallons (75 liters) |
| More than 6 fish | Add 5 gallons (19 liters) per additional 3 fish |
They need space to swim and explore.
Tank Setup and Decoration
Panda Corydoras like soft and gentle places to walk on. Use sand or very fine gravel for the tank bottom. Avoid sharp or rough rocks. These can hurt their sensitive barbels (whiskers).
Plants, driftwood, and rocks make good hiding spots. These reduce stress. The fish feel safe when they can hide. Use live plants if possible. But fake plants also work well.
Make sure the tank has places to hide. Caves or small tunnels are good.
Water Conditions
Panda Corydoras need clean water. Change 20% to 30% of the water every week. This keeps the tank healthy.
Keep the water temperature between 72°F and 79°F (22°C to 26°C). The pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. They do best in soft to medium-hard water.
Credit: www.theshrimpfarm.com
What Do Panda Corydoras Eat?
These fish eat small foods from the tank bottom. You can feed them sinking pellets made for catfish. They also like frozen or live foods. Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blackworms are good choices.
Feed small amounts twice a day. Do not feed too much. Extra food can make the water dirty.
How to Keep Panda Corydoras Healthy
- Keep the water clean and clear.
- Feed a balanced diet with good quality food.
- Keep them in groups of six or more.
- Provide hiding places to reduce stress.
- Watch for signs of illness like spots or slow movement.
:strip_icc()/catfish-5ad3a581eb97de0037fc0e18.jpg)
Credit: www.thesprucepets.com
Tank Mates for Panda Corydoras
Panda Corydoras are peaceful fish. They do well with other calm fish. Good tank mates include:
Avoid big or aggressive fish. They can hurt Panda Corydoras.
Breeding Panda Corydoras
Breeding Panda Corydoras is not very hard. You need a clean tank with good water. Feed them nutritious foods like live blackworms. This helps the fish get ready to spawn.
The female lays eggs on plants or tank glass. The eggs hatch in a few days. Baby fish eat tiny foods like baby brine shrimp.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Sometimes Panda Corydoras get sick or die. Common reasons include:
- Poor water quality
- Wrong water temperature or pH
- Not enough hiding places
- Stress from big or aggressive fish
Check your tank regularly. Change water often. Use a water test kit to check pH and hardness.
Summary Table: Panda Corydoras Care
| Care Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | Minimum 20 gallons for 6 fish |
| Water Temperature | 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Substrate | Sand or fine, smooth gravel |
| Diet | Sinking pellets, live and frozen foods |
| Social Needs | Keep in groups of at least six |
| Tank Mates | Small, peaceful fish |
| Water Changes | 20-30% weekly |
Final Thoughts
Panda Corydoras are great fish for beginners. They are small, peaceful, and easy to care for. They need clean water, soft substrate, and friends. Feed them well and give hiding places. Watch their health and tank conditions.
If you give them good care, Panda Corydoras will live happily. They will bring life and beauty to your aquarium. Enjoy watching these charming fish swim and play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Panda Corys Easy To Keep?
Panda Corys are easy to keep with proper care. They need soft substrate, clean water, and group housing. Regular feeding and hiding spots reduce stress. They thrive in peaceful community tanks, making them ideal for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.
How Many Panda Corys Need To Be Together?
Panda Corys thrive in groups of at least 4 to 6. Keeping them together reduces stress and encourages natural behavior.
What Size Tank Do Panda Corys Need?
Panda Corydoras need a minimum 10-gallon tank to thrive. Provide soft substrate and hiding spots. Keep in groups of 4 or more.
Why Do My Panda Corys Keep Dying?
Panda Corys keep dying due to poor water quality, inappropriate substrate, or lack of hiding spots. Maintain clean, soft sand substrate and stable water conditions. Provide regular water changes and a stress-free environment with plants and caves. Avoid overcrowding and feed nutritious foods for healthy Corys.
Are Panda Corydoras Easy To Keep For Beginners?
Panda Corydoras are peaceful and hardy, making them great for beginner fishkeepers.
How Many Panda Corydoras Should Be Kept Together?
Keep Panda Corydoras in groups of at least 4 to 6 for social comfort.
What Tank Size Is Best For Panda Corydoras?
A minimum 10-gallon tank suits a small group of Panda Corys comfortably.
What Substrate Is Ideal For Panda Corydoras Tanks?
Use soft sand or fine, rounded gravel to protect their delicate barbels.