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I have just set up a 20g tank and definitely plan on getting at least 6 Panda Cories.

However, while waiting the endless days for my tank to cycle, I figure I'd better learn every single thing about how to make these guys happy and healthy.

My first question has to do with when I bring them home... I remember reading that Pandas can have a hard time adjusting if the tank water is greatly different than the water in the bag they are brought home in. What is the best way to avoid any problems with this?

Also, what would everyone say is the number one thing every Panda Cory owner should have in their tank? What is one thing they really love?

And my final question for right now is, where in my chain of fish addition should the Pandas be? I plan on having a small school of Harlequin Rasboras and a pair of Cherry Barbs. I know not to add all the fish into the tank at one time, so what would be the best time to add in my Cories? (Note: it's possible that I may dump the Barbs to get a couple more Pandas. I have yet to finally decide on that one.)

Thanks guys!

Edit - I thought of one more question... Does anyone have any kind of guess as to the average lifespan of the Panda Cories?


Last edited by neurotica1983 at 10-Feb-2005 01:40

I wrote this a little while back. You might find it helpful

http://www.fishprofiles.com/files/forums/Bottom%20Feeder%20Frenzy/53920.html

Enjoy!

Panda Catfish fan and keeper/breeder since Christmas 2002

Thank you. That post was very interesting and informative.

Ok, so I have answered my question about how to best adjust the water in their bag to the tank water.

Unless I missed it somewhere, I don't think I have seen anything yet that gives me any idea on the average lifespan of Pandas... So, I'm still looking for any opinion on that question.

Also, for those of you who have Pandas, I would still love to hear about the things in your tank that your Pandas enjoy most...

I have decided to get my pair of Cherry Barbs first. Would it be best to get my small school of Rasboras or my 6 Pandas next? (Or doesn't it really matter?)

Thanks!

Corydoras lifespan? Hmm. 10 years is considered a baseline. Many exceed 15 years. Oldest on record is a Bronze Cory that was 34 years old. Pandas should hit 15 years of age if looked after without too much trouble.

You can acquire your pandas either before or after the Cherry Barbs & Rasboras. They should live amicably with both. However, get a decent sized group as they're typical small Corys in being more in need of their own species than average. Also, give them a stimulating environment: natural plants, "conceptual art" pieces of bogwood to explore, and make your gravel bed undulating. For some reason, my Pandas love this! Probably replicates the kind of gravel bed they'd live over in the wild ...

Oh, and if you get a decent group (say 6 or more) then be prepared for LOTS of Panda 'comedy moments' - these fish are blessed with exquisite comic timing!

Last edited by Calilasseia at 10-Feb-2005 05:53

Panda Catfish fan and keeper/breeder since Christmas 2002