Can Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 110 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Bearded Cory

Scleromystax barbatus

Panda Corydoras

Corydoras panda

🐟Family Group
Bearded Cory
Catfish
Panda Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Bearded Cory
Peaceful (2/10)
Panda Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Bearded Cory
16–23°C
Panda Corydoras
20–25°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Bearded Cory
6–7.4
Panda Corydoras
6–7.4
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Bearded Cory
2–12
Panda Corydoras
2–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Bearded Cory
Freshwater Only
Panda Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Bearded Cory
Moderate
Panda Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Bearded Cory
110 L
Panda Corydoras
54 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Bearded Cory
Bottom
Panda Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Bearded Cory
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Panda Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Bearded Cory
Panda Corydoras
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Bearded Cory is a peaceful species (2/10), while Panda Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Bearded Cory may occasionally assert dominance over Panda Corydoras.

Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 23°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 21.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.4. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras live together?

Yes. Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 90 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras together?

Keep the aquarium between 20°C and 23°C. A target of around 21.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Bearded Cory or Panda Corydoras aggressive?

Bearded Cory is peaceful (2/10) and Panda Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Bearded Cory and Panda Corydoras need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.4 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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