Panda Corydoras Care Guide
The Panda Corydoras (Corydoras panda) is one of the most popular freshwater catfish in the UK aquarium hobby. Known for its black eye patches and peaceful nature, it's a favourite for planted and community aquariums.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Panda Corydoras care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Panda Corydoras
Panda corydoras are small armoured catfish native to Peru. Their distinctive black markings around the eyes and fins resemble a panda bear, giving them their common name.
They are social, peaceful fish that spend their time exploring the bottom of the aquarium.
Corydoras panda
4-5 cm
Peru (South America)
60L (15gal)
5-10 years
Peaceful, social
20-26°C
Omnivore (sinking pellets, frozen, live foods)
6.0-7.5
£3-£8 per fish
How Many Panda Corydoras Should You Keep?
Panda corydoras are highly social fish and should always be kept in groups.
- A minimum group of 5-6 is recommended
- Larger groups encourage confidence and natural behaviour
- Same-species groups work best for schooling behaviour
Keeping too few can lead to:
- Stress and hiding
- Nervous behaviour
- Reduced activity
They are much more active and entertaining in larger groups.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Panda Corydoras
Providing the right environment helps panda corydoras stay healthy and active.
- Tank Setup: Peaceful planted aquarium with open bottom space
- Substrate: Fine sand is ideal to protect sensitive barbels
- Plants & Decor: Driftwood, caves, leaf litter, and shaded areas
- Water Conditions: Stable, clean freshwater with good oxygenation
- Filtration & Flow: Gentle to moderate filtration
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
They appreciate mature aquariums with soft substrate.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Panda corydoras are extremely peaceful and ideal for community aquariums.
- Good Tankmates: tetras, rasboras, gouramis, kuhli loaches, shrimp, and peaceful livebearers
- Avoid: aggressive fish and large predatory species
They coexist well with almost all peaceful tropical fish.
Are Panda Corydoras Easy to Care For?
Panda corydoras are easy to care for and suitable for beginners.
They require:
- Clean stable water
- Soft substrate
- Proper group sizes
- A varied sinking diet
They are hardy once properly acclimated.
Panda Corydoras Price in the UK
In the UK, panda corydoras typically cost between �3-�8 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Size and quality
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
Healthy, active specimens are usually best.
Where to Buy Panda Corydoras in the UK
Panda corydoras are widely available in UK aquarium shops and from hobbyist breeders.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to assess health and condition
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Panda Corydoras?
Yes - panda corydoras are commonly bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with responsible aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Panda Corydoras
Panda corydoras are omnivorous scavengers and easy to feed.
Key Tips
- Feed sinking pellets or wafers
- Supplement with frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Ensure food reaches the bottom of the tank
- Feed small portions 1-2 times daily
They should not rely solely on leftover food from other fish.
Common Problems with Panda Corydoras
Barbel damage, often caused by:
- Sharp gravel substrates
- Poor water quality
Stress or hiding, linked to:
- Small group sizes
- Aggressive tankmates
Poor health, caused by:
- Dirty substrate
- Poor maintenance
Why Panda Corydoras Are So Popular
- Cute panda-like markings
- Peaceful and beginner-friendly
- Excellent community fish
- Constantly active bottom-dwellers
- Ideal for planted aquariums
When kept correctly, panda corydoras bring personality and activity to the lower levels of tropical aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
At least 5-6, though larger groups are recommended.
Yes, fine sand is ideal to protect their barbels.
No, they are extremely peaceful community fish.
At least 60 litres, with soft substrate and group companions.
Looking to Buy or Sell Panda Corydoras Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're adding peaceful bottom-dwellers to your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.