Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'm setting up a new 20 gallon tank and wanna add some corydoras. Which type do you guys think is the best for a beginner? I've heard mixed things about Panda Corys and Bronze Corys.

Panda Corys are cool, but they can be a bit sensitive. Bronze Corys are more hardy, imo. What's your substrate like? They prefer sand or fine gravel.

I've had great luck with Sterbai Corys. They're super active and have that cool orange fin edge. Plus, they're chill with most tankmates.

Sterbai are awesome, but they need warmer water, like 78-82°F. If your tank's cooler, Pandas or Peppered Corys might be better. What's your temp at?

Peppered Corys are underrated. They're tough as nails and don't mind cooler temps. Mine are in a 75°F tank and breeding like crazy.

I've got a group of Pygmy Corys in my 10 gallon. They're tiny but full of personality. Perfect for smaller tanks.

shorey7 wrote: ↑Tue Jul 29, 2025 3:37 am Sterbai are awesome, but they need warmer water, like 78-82°F. If your tank's cooler, Pandas or Peppered Corys might be better. What's your temp at?

Agreed. Sterbai are great if you can keep the temp stable. I run mine at 80°F with a sponge filter and they're thriving.

Julii Corys are my fave. Their spotted pattern is killer, and they're super social. Just make sure you get at least 6, they're shoaling fish.

Bronze Corys are the OG. Easy to find, cheap, and hardy. Perfect for beginners. Plus, they'll sift through your substrate like little vacuum cleaners.

I'd skip the Pandas unless you're ready for some extra care. They're cute but finicky. Bronze or Peppered are way more forgiving.