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Keyhole Cichlid
Cleithracara maronii
📍 South America
The Keyhole Cichlid is a small, peaceful South American cichlid named for the distinctive keyhole-shaped marking on its body. These shy, gentle fish are excellent for community tanks and are known for their interesting behavior and relatively undemanding care requirements. They are popular among both beginner and experienced aquarists seeking a non-aggressive cichlid option.
Care Guide
Diet
Keyhole Cichlids are omnivorous and should be fed a varied diet including high-quality pellets, flakes, and frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily, only what they can consume in a few minutes. They will also graze on algae wafers and appreciate occasional vegetable matter.
Behavior
Keyhole Cichlids are shy, peaceful fish that spend much of their time near the bottom and middle zones of the tank. They are relatively inactive compared to other cichlids and prefer densely planted tanks with hiding spots. They are social and can be kept in pairs or small groups, though they may become territorial during breeding.
Breeding
Keyhole Cichlids are moderately difficult to breed in captivity. They are monogamous and form pairs; breeding occurs in caves or sheltered areas. Provide soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5) and temperatures around 26-28°C (79-82°F) to encourage spawning. Parents are generally good caregivers and will protect their fry.
Tank Mates
Bottom-dwelling catfish that share similar water parameters and peaceful temperament
Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy upper water column and do not compete with Keyholes
Peaceful community fish with similar water requirements and non-aggressive behavior
Small algae-eating catfish that are peaceful and prefer similar soft, slightly acidic water
Peaceful labyrinth fish that occupy different tank zones and have compatible temperament
Peaceful invertebrates that help control algae and do not threaten adult Keyholes
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against objects, lethargy
Increase water temperature to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform daily water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; ensure adequate aeration
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, fin loss
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, reduce stress by providing hiding spots, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure good filtration
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, color fading, torn fins
Perform large water changes, maintain pristine water conditions, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication; quarantine if possible
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, white or gray coating on body, weight loss, lethargy
Use anti-parasitic medication, increase water temperature slightly, perform frequent water changes; quarantine affected fish to prevent spread
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore - feeds on small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter
- lifespan
- 8-10 years
- max size
- 8.5 cm (3.5 in)
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- temperament
- peaceful
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0-7.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 4-8 dGH
- temperature
- 75–82°F (24–28°C)