Why are they called Panda Corys?

The name comes from their striking resemblance to a giant panda — bold black patches over the eyes, on the dorsal fin, and at the base of the tail contrast against a pale cream body. The pattern is consistent across individuals, making them one of the most recognisable corydoras species.

Do Panda Corys need sand substrate?

Strongly recommended. Corydoras catfish have sensitive barbels that they use to sift through substrate for food. Sharp gravel can damage these barbels, leading to erosion and infection. Fine sand (play sand or aquarium sand) is ideal and allows natural foraging behaviour.

Can I mix Panda Corys with other Corydoras species?

Yes — different corydoras species coexist peacefully. However, each species prefers to shoal with its own kind, so keep at least 6 of each species rather than mixing small numbers of several species. Panda Corys will loosely interact with other cories but form their tightest social bonds within their own group.

Corydoras panda

Panda Cory – Corydoras Panda

Name: Panda Cory – Corydoras Panda
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: 8447
Price: 7.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Beginner Friendly

Peaceful

£7.99In Stock

Panda Cory (Corydoras panda) – one of the most charming and popular corydoras species, named for its adorable panda-like markings: bold black patches over the eyes, on the dorsal fin, and at the base of the tail against a pale cream body. A peaceful, easy-care bottom dweller from Peru.

CatfishCommunity FishCorydorasEasy CarePanda Corysite:tropical-fish-co

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Corydoras panda

Adult Size

5 cm

Lifespan

8 years

Care Level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Temperature

20–25°C

pH Range

6–7.5

Hardness

2–12 dGH

Minimum Tank

60L

Diet

Sinking pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

20–25°C

20°CIdeal Range25°C

pH Level

6–7.5

6Ideal Range7.5

Water Hardness

2–12 dGH

2 dGHIdeal Range12 dGH

The Panda Cory (Corydoras panda) is one of the most beloved catfish in the hobby, and it's easy to see why. The distinctive panda-like markings — bold black patches over the eyes, on the dorsal fin, and at the base of the tail, set against a pale cream to pinkish body — give this little catfish an irresistibly charming appearance.

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name	Corydoras panda
Adult Size	4–5 cm
Temperature	20–25 °C
pH Range	6.0–7.5
Hardness	2–12 dGH
Minimum Tank	60 litres
Diet	Sinking pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworms
Temperament	Peaceful
Lifespan	5–8 years
Care Level	Easy

Cooler Water Specialist

Unlike many tropical fish, Panda Corys prefer slightly cooler water at 20–25 °C. They originate from cool, clear mountain streams in Peru, fed by Andean snowmelt. In warmer tanks (above 26 °C), they can become stressed and more susceptible to disease. This makes them ideal companions for other cooler-water species.

Social Bottom Dwellers

Panda Corys are highly social and must be kept in groups of 6 or more. A group of pandas foraging together across the substrate is one of the most endearing sights in the hobby. They communicate through body language and gentle clicking sounds, and a content group will be constantly active, exploring every inch of the tank floor.

Tank Mates

Peaceful with all community fish. Perfect with tetras, rasboras, and other corydoras. See also our Skunk Cory, Adolfo's Cory, and Sterbai Cory.

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