A remarkably peaceful and shy South American cichlid, named for the distinctive keyhole-shaped black marking on its flank. Unlike many of its cousins, it rarely digs or destroys plants and makes an excellent resident for a peaceful community tank. When stressed or frightened, it can rapidly mottle its colors to blend in with its surroundings.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult, Unsexed
Top Tank Mates
Marbled Hatchetfish
Carnegiella strigata
🟢Ideal Tank MatesAfrican Butterfly Fish
Pantodon buchholzi
🟢Ideal Tank MatesClown Killifish
Epiplatys annulatus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesGlowlight Tetra
Hemigrammus erythrozonus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesAgassiz's Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma agassizii
🟢Ideal Tank MatesWhiptail Catfish
Rineloricaria sp.
🟢Ideal Tank MatesKeyhole Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The Keyhole Cichlid, scientifically known as Cleithracara maronii, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 10 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a medium level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Keyhole Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 80 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 2–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Keyhole Cichlid is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The Keyhole Cichlid is typically available in one standard form.
Keyhole Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Keyhole Cichlid, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat, and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.
Keyhole Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Keyhole Cichlid is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keyhole Cichlid
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Similar Species
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Texas Cichlid
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Firemouth Cichlid
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A popular Central American cichlid famous for the bright red coloration on its throat and belly, which it flares to intimidate rivals. They are earth-eaters, constantly sifting sand for food. While territorial, especially during breeding, they are relatively peaceful for a cichlid of their size compared to larger Central American counterparts.
Freshwater Angelfish
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