Long Fin Panda Corydoras

The Longfin Panda Corydoras is a captivating variation of the popular Panda Cory, a charming and active little bottom feeder native to the Ucayali River system in Peru. These endearing catfish have captivated aquarists with their unique and endearing appearance, combining the classic Panda Cory pattern with a graceful touch of elegance.

True to their name, Longfin Panda Cories possess elongated dorsal and anal fins, creating a flowing, almost ethereal appearance as they gracefully navigate the aquarium floor. This graceful movement, combined with their distinctive coloration, makes them a truly captivating addition to any community tank.

Their coloration is equally striking. They exhibit a light gray base color, accented by a distinctive black mask over the eyes, a prominent black vertical stripe before the tailfin, and black dorsal fins, creating a striking resemblance to their namesake, the giant panda. This unique patterning, coupled with their elongated fins, creates a truly mesmerizing visual spectacle.

Beyond their unique appearance, Longfin Panda Cories are known for their peaceful and social nature. They are happiest when kept in schools of at least five or more individuals, engaging in playful interactions and exploring the aquarium together. Observing their lively antics as they school together and explore the substrate can be incredibly entertaining.

I hope this expanded explanation provides a deeper appreciation for the unique characteristics and captivating beauty of the Longfin Panda Corydoras, a truly enchanting addition to any well-maintained community aquarium.

Key Characteristics:

• Size: They are small, reaching a maximum size of around 2 inches (5 cm).
• Coloration: They have a light gray base color, black dorsal fins, a black vertical stripe before the tailfin, and a black mask over the eyes, resembling their namesake, the giant panda. The "longfin" variety boasts elongated dorsal and anal fins, adding to their unique appearance.
• Temperament: Longfin Panda Cories are peaceful and social fish, making them excellent additions to community aquariums. They are happiest when kept in schools of at least five or more individuals.
• Care Requirements:
  • Water Parameters: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH of 6.0-7.5, a temperature range of 72-79°F (22-26°C), and moderate hardness.
  • Diet: They are omnivores and can be fed a variety of flake foods, frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and live foods like daphnia and mosquito larvae.
  • Tank Setup: A well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots is ideal for these fish. They enjoy swimming in the middle and upper levels of the water column.

Compatibility:

Longfin Panda Cories are peaceful and can coexist with a wide range of other peaceful community fish, including:

• Other Tetras: Neon Tetras, Glowlight Tetras, Rummynose Tetras, Black Skirt Tetras
• Rasboras: Harlequin Rasboras, Scissortail Rasboras
• Danios: Zebra Danios, Celestial Pearl Danios
• Corydoras Catfish: Peppered Corydoras, Panda Corydoras
• Dwarf Gouramis: Honey Gourami, Sparkling Gourami
• Kuhlis Loaches
• Otocinclus Catfish

Important Considerations:

• Schooling Behavior: Keeping them in schools of at least five or more individuals is crucial for their well-being and to showcase their natural behavior.
• Water Quality: Maintaining good water quality is essential for their health. Regular water changes and proper filtration are necessary.

By providing the right tank conditions and compatible tank mates, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty and peaceful presence of Longfin Panda Cories in your aquarium.