Can Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 132 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus vitreolus

Panda Corydoras

Corydoras panda

🐟Family Group
Glass Catfish
Catfish
Panda Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Glass Catfish
Peaceful (1/10)
Panda Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
24–28°C
Panda Corydoras
20–25°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
6–7
Panda Corydoras
6–7.4
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
1–10
Panda Corydoras
2–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
Freshwater Only
Panda Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
Moderate
Panda Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Glass Catfish
110 L
Panda Corydoras
54 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Glass Catfish
Middle
Panda Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Glass Catfish
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Panda Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Glass Catfish is a peaceful species (1/10), while Panda Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Glass Catfish may occasionally assert dominance over Panda Corydoras.

In terms of spatial distribution, Glass Catfish prefers the Middle (Open Water) zone, whereas Panda Corydoras occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 90 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 132 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras need?

A minimum of 132 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 Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 25°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Glass Catfish or Panda Corydoras aggressive?

Glass Catfish is peaceful (1/10) and Panda Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Glass Catfish and Panda Corydoras need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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