Keyhole cichlid
Cleithracara maronii · Cichlidae
Also known as Keyhole
Beginner
Possibly the shyest and most peaceful cichlid there is; safe with small tetras.
In short: A keyhole cichlid needs at least 150 L (40 US gal), water at 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) and pH 6–7.5. It is peaceful, kept in pairs or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 150 L (40 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Adult size
- 10 cm (3.9 in)
- Group size
- 2+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 150 L (40 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- 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
- TetrasCorydorasRasboras
- Avoid
- Boisterous cichlidsBright 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
- IchStress-related hiding and fasting
Will it fit your tank?
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