Panda Cory breeding

Breeding Panda Corydoras, or Panda Cory, can be a rewarding experience for aquarists, especially given their relatively straightforward breeding process. These small, social catfish are known to breed readily in well-maintained aquariums, provided their environmental conditions are met. To encourage breeding, it’s important to keep Panda Corys in a group, as they are more likely to spawn when kept in schools of six or more. A separate breeding tank is recommended, with soft, slightly acidic water (pH around 6.5 to 7.0) and a temperature between 72°F and 75°F (22°C to 24°C). The tank should have fine, sandy substrate and be equipped with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants and caves, to make the fish feel secure.

To trigger spawning, simulate the rainy season, which is their natural breeding time, by gradually lowering the water temperature by a few degrees and performing more frequent water changes with cooler water. This change often encourages the females to start producing eggs. During breeding, the males will chase the females, who then lay adhesive eggs on flat surfaces such as plant leaves or the aquarium glass. After the eggs are laid, it’s important to remove the adult fish from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs.

The eggs typically hatch within three to five days, depending on the water temperature. Once the fry emerge, they should be fed with finely crushed flake food or specially prepared fry food until they are large enough to accept larger foods. Maintaining excellent water quality is crucial during this period, as the fry are very sensitive to pollutants. With proper care and attention, breeding Panda Corys can be a successful and enjoyable endeavor, resulting in a healthy new generation of these delightful fish.