Panda Corydoras - Corydoras Panda : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Panda Corydoras (Corydoras Panda)The Corydoras Panda, affectionately known as the Panda Cory, is a small and charming freshwater fish that has captivated aquarists worldwide with its distinctive black and white colouration reminiscent of a panda bear. Renowned for their peaceful temperament and sociable nature, Panda Corydoras are often recommended for community tanks. They are bottom dwellers, playing a critical role in the aquarium by scavenging leftover food and debris, which helps maintain a clean and healthy aquatic environment. Their ease of care and adorable appearance make them a popular choice for both novice and experienced aquarists alike.
To ensure a healthy and active school of Panda Corydoras, it is best to keep them in groups of at least six individuals. They will be far more confident and active in the presence of their own kind. Other peaceful species, including select smaller pencilfish, tetras, and rasboras, serve as excellent companions for Panda Corydoras. Their role as "dither fish" occupying midwater levels often encourages the Corydoras to venture more frequently into view. This symbiotic arrangement enhances the dynamics of the aquarium, promoting a more active and engaging environment for all species involved.
For the optimal health and well-being of your fish, it is highly recommended to keep them on a soft sand substrate that will allow them to root around and forage without risking damage to their sensitive barbels. Coarse gravel can accumulate waste that can lead to bacterial infections and abrasions, so it's best to avoid it altogether. Efficient filtration is essential, and the water should have moderate movement and oxygenation levels. Regular maintenance and partial water changes are necessary to keep the aquarium environment healthy for your fish. To make your aquarium more natural for your fish, provide plenty of shaded areas amongst driftwood, rocks, and dense planting. This will allow your fish to hide and explore their surroundings, leading to a more engaging and natural display.
The Panda Corydoras boasts a unique and striking appearance with its light and dark markings. Their bodies range from white to pink and display three prominent spots that are reminiscent of their namesake - the panda. The first black spot covers the upper part of their head and eyes, while the second one is on their dorsal fin and the third one is located where their tail begins. They also have three pairs of barbells that add to their charm. Overall, the Panda Corydoras is a charming and peaceful fish that adds both beauty and character to any community aquarium.
1 Panda Corydoras variant
Below is a list of Variant/Colour Morphs of the Panda Corydoras
Panda Corydoras Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
When it comes to distinguishing between the male and female Panda Corydoras, the identification can only be made by observing these fish from above. Typically, females exhibit a broader body shape and may be slightly larger than males. Accurate sexing of these fish is essential when it comes to breeding and maintaining a healthy population in the home aquarium.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Corydoras Panda |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1971 |
| Other Names | Panda Catfish, Panda Cory Cat |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Callichthyidae |
| Genus | Corydoras |
| Origins | Ecuador , Peru |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 2 - 20 |
| ℉ | 68 - 77 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 25 |
Natural Habitat
Panda Corydoras originate from the diverse ecosystems of South America, specifically within Ecuador and Peru. Notably, they thrive in the Huanaco region, inhabiting the Rio Amarillae and Rio Aquas, which are tributaries of the larger Rio Ucayali and Rio Pachitea River systems.
These adorable fish demonstrate remarkable adaptability to various aquatic environments, ranging from clear to blackwater tributaries and streams. A distinctive preference for sandy substrates is observed, often influenced by the meltwater runoff from the majestic Andean mountains. This adaptability highlights their resilience and the broad range of habitats they can occupy.
Breeding
Breeding the Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda) is a relatively simple process that involves some specific tank conditions and careful management. First, it is necessary to prepare a separate breeding tank that is heavily planted and has either sand or smooth gravel as the substrate. Alternatively, a bare-bottom tank is also suitable.
For optimal breeding success, the water in the breeding tank should be slightly acidic and soft. It is also recommended to have more males than females in the breeding group, with a ratio of two males to every female. To encourage spawning, it is essential to condition the breeding group with live and frozen foods.
Once the females are full of eggs, perform a profound water change with colder water and increase the flow and oxygenation in the tank. This should be replicated daily until the Corydoras spawn. During spawning, the males will continuously pursue the females until the female decides to lay eggs. The female will position her head against the mid-portion of the male, and the male will clasp the female's barbels with his pectoral fins.
The female will then form a basket with her pelvic fins, in which she will store up to four eggs. It is believed that the sperm passes through the female's gills and is directed to fertilize the eggs. Once fertilized, the female will find the optimal location to attach her sticky eggs. This process will continue until she has laid around 100 to 150 eggs.
It is worth noting that the parents will not care for or protect the eggs once they have been laid and are more likely to eat them. Therefore, it is essential to separate the eggs if the fry is to survive. The eggs will usually hatch three to five days later, and you should then feed the fry with freshly hatched micro-worms, rotifers or brine shrimp. With careful management and appropriate conditions, breeding the Panda Corydoras can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Diet & Feeding
To ensure optimal nutrition for Panda Corydoras, it is advisable to provide a well-balanced diet primarily composed of high-quality sinking pellets or tablets. Augmenting this staple with a variety of frozen, freeze-dried, and live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia is recommended to diversify their intake. Offering a range of dietary options is crucial to prevent nutritional deficiencies and promote overall health.
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