Corydoras Panda

Datasheet

General Description

There are over 180 described species of Corydoras, commonly known as "corys," making it one of the most speciose South American fish genera. They are part of the Callichthyidae family and are popular among aquarists due to their peaceful nature and cute appearance. One well-known species is the Corydoras Panda, also called the Panda Cory, which is recognized for its attractive dark and light markings resembling a Giant Panda.

Aquarium Setup

For a tank replicating an Amazon biotope suitable for Corydoras Panda, use river sand substrate, driftwood branches, twisted roots, and dried leaves to mimic natural environments. Items like common beech and oak leaves are safe to use for authenticity. Avoid aquatic plants and incorporate dim lighting. Another setup option includes a well-planted tank with meticulous maintenance, avoiding undergravel filtration and ensuring a clean substrate, as these fish are sensitive to deteriorating water conditions.

Behaviour

Corydoras, including the Panda Cory, are very peaceful and thrive in community tanks. It is best to keep them in groups of at least six for increased confidence and activity. Good tankmates include small fish like characins, cyprinids, anabantoids, dwarf cichlids, and peaceful catfish. Corydoras are benthic and may exhibit facultative air-breathing behavior, allowing them to survive in oxygen-deprived conditions by breathing atmospheric air.

Feeding and Diet

Panda Corys are omnivorous and thrive on sinking pellets or tablets as a staple diet. Supplement their diet with live and frozen foods like Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms. Feeding them sinking varieties ensures they receive adequate nutrition. It's essential to provide a varied diet to maintain their health and well-being.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding Panda Corys involves setting up a suitable tank with favorable conditions, including a higher ratio of males to females. They lay adhesive eggs on tank glass, and the adults may consume them if not separated. Successful breeding requires specific water parameters, food conditioning, and observation of spawning behavior. Sexual dimorphism is evident from above, with females having a more rounded belly and being slightly larger than males.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to parts of the upper Amazon in Peru, Panda Corys inhabit clear and blackwater streams with sandy substrates. Wild specimens are rare in the trade, with most available fish being commercially bred on farms. These captive-bred fish are generally hardier than wild counterparts, having adapted to varied conditions during cultivation.