Panda Cory

Overview

• Scientific Name: Corydoras panda
• Common Names: Panda Cory, Panda Catfish
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Origin: Native to the Upper Amazon and its tributaries in Peru, particularly in the regions around the Ucayali River.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Grows to about 2 to 2.5 inches (5-6 cm) in length.
• Coloration: The Panda Cory has a pale, cream-colored to light pink body with distinctive black markings:
  • Black patches over each eye, resembling the face markings of a panda bear.
  • A black saddle mark near the dorsal fin.
  • A black spot at the base of the caudal fin (tail).
• Body Shape: Typical of the Corydoras genus, the Panda Cory has a robust, rounded body covered with bony plates, a short face, and a pair of barbels near the mouth for foraging on the substrate.

Behavior

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and shy when kept alone. Panda Corys are best kept in groups of at least 5 to 6 individuals. In groups, they are much more active, displaying their natural schooling behavior.
• Activity: They are bottom dwellers, spending much of their time foraging for food on the substrate. They are active during the day and are also known to rise to the surface occasionally to gulp air.
• Schooling Behavior: Panda Corys are highly social and enjoy the company of their own kind. Keeping them in groups reduces their stress and encourages more natural behavior.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A group of Panda Corys needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
  • pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2 to 12 dGH)
• Substrate: Use soft sand or fine, rounded gravel to protect their delicate barbels. Avoid sharp or rough substrates that can cause injury.
• Tank Setup:
  • Add plenty of plants, driftwood, and rock structures to create hiding spots and mimic their natural environment.
  • Low to moderate lighting is preferred to keep them comfortable, as they are naturally found in shaded, slow-moving waters.
  • Keep a gentle water flow, simulating the slow-moving rivers they are accustomed to.

Diet

• Omnivorous: Panda Corys are bottom feeders and will readily accept a variety of sinking foods.
  • Sinking pellets or catfish wafers are ideal.
  • They enjoy live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
  • Offer them some vegetable matter or algae wafers to provide variety.
• Feed them once or twice a day, ensuring the food sinks to the bottom where they can find it.

Breeding

• Spawning Behavior: Panda Corydoras are relatively easy to breed in captivity.
  • Spawning Conditions: A cooler water change can help trigger spawning behavior. Females will lay eggs on plant leaves, glass, or other tank surfaces, and the males will fertilize them externally.
  • Egg Development: The eggs hatch in 3 to 5 days, and the fry can be fed infusoria, micro-worms, or finely crushed flake food.
  • Fry grow relatively quickly but require clean water and good food to thrive.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Panda Corys are peaceful and get along with a wide variety of community fish. Good tank mates include:
  • Tetras
  • Rasboras
  • Guppies and other small livebearers
  • Danios
  • Other Corydoras species
  • Plecos and other non-aggressive bottom dwellers
  • Avoid large, aggressive species that may bully or harm them.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Panda Corydoras can live for 5 to 10 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

1. "Panda" Name: The Panda Cory got its name from its black markings over its eyes, which resemble the iconic black patches of a panda bear.
2. Air Breathers: Like other Corydoras, Panda Corys can breathe atmospheric air using their modified intestine, which allows them to survive in low-oxygen environments.
3. Great for Beginners: Due to their hardy nature, peaceful temperament, and ease of care, Panda Corys are a favorite among beginner aquarists.
4. Social Creatures: They thrive when kept in groups and will exhibit more natural, active behavior when they have companions of their own species.

Health Considerations

• Barbel Health: Ensure that the substrate is smooth and soft to prevent damage to their barbels, which can lead to infection or difficulty foraging for food.
• Water Quality: Panda Corys are sensitive to poor water quality, especially ammonia and nitrite. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential.
• Common Diseases: Like many freshwater fish, they can be susceptible to Ich, fin rot, and other bacterial infections, especially if water quality is not maintained.