Panda Corydoras (No Online Purchases)

Name: Panda Corydoras / Panda Cory - (In Store Pickup Only)

Scientific Name: Hoplisoma panda (formerly Corydoras panda)

Description: A charming and peaceful freshwater catfish recognised for its distinctive black and white markings, resembling those of a Giant Panda. Panda Corydoras have a creamy white to pale pink body with striking black patches around the eyes, dorsal fin and base of the tail. These small, active bottom-dwellers are popular additions to community aquariums due to their gentle nature and entertaining behaviour. They spend much of their time exploring the substrate in search of food, often moving together in small groups. Their social nature and attractive appearance make them an excellent choice for peaceful freshwater aquariums.

Origin: South America, particularly the upper Amazon River basin in Peru, where they inhabit clear streams and tributaries.

pH: Approximately 6.0–7.4

Temperature: Around 20–25°C, preferably 22–24°C. Panda Corydoras prefer slightly cooler conditions than many other tropical catfish.

Adult Size: Approximately 4–5 cm

Lifespan: Approximately 5–8 years, potentially longer with excellent care.

Food: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of quality sinking catfish pellets, bottom-feeder tablets and wafers, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Panda Corydoras naturally forage along the substrate but should receive dedicated feeding rather than relying solely on leftover food from other fish.

Compatibility: Extremely peaceful and ideal for community aquariums containing similarly sized, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include small Tetras, Rasboras, peaceful Danios, small Gouramis and other compatible Corydoras species. Panda Corydoras are highly social and should be kept in groups of at least six, with larger groups of eight or more encouraging natural behaviour and confidence. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive Cichlids and species requiring consistently high water temperatures.

Habitat: A well-established freshwater aquarium with a soft, fine sand substrate that allows natural foraging without damaging their delicate barbels. Provide driftwood, aquatic plants, smooth rocks and shaded areas for shelter, along with open spaces for exploring. Panda Corydoras appreciate clean, well-oxygenated water with gentle to moderate flow and stable water conditions.  Regular water changes and good filtration are essential, as this species is sensitive to deteriorating water quality and prolonged high temperatures.