Panda Cory Catfish (Corydoras panda) are small freshwater fish that typically reach a maximum size of 4 cm (1.58 inches). Their compact size makes them a popular and suitable choice for various aquarium setups.
These charming bottom-dwelling catfish are known for their distinctive black patches around their eyes and at the base of their tail, resembling a panda bear.
Key Characteristics of Panda Cory Catfish
Their small stature is one of their defining features, making them ideal inhabitants for smaller community aquariums or nano tanks. Below is a quick overview of their key characteristics:
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum Size | 4 cm (1.58 inches) |
| Synonyms | Corydoras panda |
| Distribution | Upper Amazon River Basin, Peru. Most specimens available in the aquatics trade are captive-bred. |
| Temperature | 21-25°C (70-77°F) |
Practical Considerations for Panda Cory Catfish
Due to their diminutive size, Panda Cory Catfish are peaceful and active fish that thrive in well-maintained aquariums. Here are a few practical insights:
- Tank Size: While small, they are schooling fish, meaning they prefer to be kept in groups. A minimum tank size of 10-15 gallons is often recommended for a small group (6 or more individuals) to provide adequate space for their social behavior and foraging activities.
- Tank Mates: Their peaceful nature makes them excellent companions for other small, non-aggressive fish such as small tetras, rasboras, or dwarf gouramis. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive species that might view them as prey or outcompete them for food.
- Substrate: They enjoy sifting through soft substrates like sand to find food, so a sandy or very fine gravel bottom is ideal to protect their delicate barbels.
Their small size contributes to their suitability for a variety of aquarists, from beginners to experienced hobbyists, provided their specific needs for water quality and social interaction are met.
