Species profile
Panda Corydoras
Hoplisoma panda
Peaceful
Moderate care
80 L minimum aquarium
3.5–4.5 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small cool-tolerant Cory relative best kept on soft sand in a mature, well-oxygenated aquarium. Avoid routinely holding it at temperatures chosen for very warm-water species.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
21–25 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
Not yet documented
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
None
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
0.8
Peaceful and social. Keep at least six, with shaded cover and calm community tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
80 L
Minimum footprint
75 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hoplisoma panda
Alternative names
Panda Cory, Corydoras panda
Native range
Upper Amazon basin, Peru.
Natural habitat
Use soft sand, wood, rocks and dense planting with areas of moderate current and good oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Feed sinking catfish foods plus small frozen/live invertebrates. Ensure all fish receive food at the bottom.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females become larger and broader through the body; males remain slimmer.
Breeding
Egg layer using the characteristic Corydoradinae T-position; adhesive eggs are deposited individually on surfaces.