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Keyhole cichlid (Cleithracara maronii)
Photo: Bartosz Senderek · CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons

Keyhole cichlid

Cleithracara maronii · Cichlidae

Also known as Keyhole

Beginner

Possibly the shyest and most peaceful cichlid there is; safe with small tetras.

Minimum tank
150 L
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
Adult size
10 cm
Group size
2+
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Care requirements
Minimum tank volume
150 L
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
2–15 dGH
Lifespan
8–10 years
Diet
Omnivore — pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine.
Care level
Beginner
Origin & habitat
Native region
Guyana and Venezuela coastal rivers
Water type
Freshwater
Biotope
Slow, wood-filled tributaries
Natural conditions
Soft to medium water, wood, dim light, plenty of cover.
Behaviour & stocking
Temperament
Peaceful
Minimum group
2 fish
Swims
All levels
Good tank mates
Tetras
Corydoras
Rasboras
Avoid
Boisterous cichlids
Bright bare tanks
Breeding & difficulty
Breeding difficulty
Intermediate
Sexing
Males have slightly extended fin tips.
Notes
Pairs lay eggs on a flat surface and co-parent.
Common ailments
Ich
Stress-related hiding and fasting

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