Cory appropriate substrate?

[Bombalurina]

Sorry for the gender mistake. :) A 14 long has easily a big enough footprint for bronzes, if that's what you choose, but pandas are extremely cute. :)

[SpookyTooth]

Thank you both!

I might stick with bronzes as I believe they will be much easier to acquire, but if I can find pandas I'll certainly squee and get them instead! Out of curiosity, would a group of five individuals fit my aquarium? It will eventually also house some shrimp (whether ghost or red cherry; these will actually be added a couple of months in advance to the cories, after cycling in the hopes that they'll breed) and Kaze, my betta.

I'd like to make sure they are as comfortable as possible.

[Bombalurina]

5 cories would be absolutely fine. :)

[SpookyTooth]

Oh that's awesome! Now I'm even more excited - thank you. Testing the heater out today, if all goes well I should be able to start cycling tomorrow (using the fish food method).