Keyhole cichlid Small -Medium
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🐟 Keyhole Cichlid Care Sheet
🔹 Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cleithracara maronii |
| Common Name | Keyhole Cichlid |
| Origin | South America (Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname) |
| Adult Size | 10–12 cm (4–4.7 in) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful, shy, semi-aggressive when breeding |
| Tank Level | Mid to bottom |
🔹 Tank Setup
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | 75+ liters (20+ gallons) for a pair |
| Temperature | 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH) |
| Substrate | Sand or fine gravel |
| Decor | Rocks, caves, driftwood, hiding spots |
| Lighting | Low to moderate |
| Filtration | Gentle to moderate; avoid strong currents |
Tips:
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Provide plenty of hiding spaces to reduce stress.
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Peaceful by nature, but males can be territorial during breeding.
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Best kept in pairs or small groups, particularly for breeding setups.
🔹 Diet
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Type: Omnivorous
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Best Foods: Flakes, pellets, frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and occasional vegetable matter.
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Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily; feed small portions.
🔹 Behavior & Compatibility
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Generally peaceful; good for community tanks.
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Can become semi-aggressive when defending territory or fry.
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Mid- to bottom-dwelling; appreciates subdued lighting and plants.
🧭 Tank Mate Guide
✅ Compatible Species
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Peaceful tetras and rasboras
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Corydoras catfish
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Dwarf cichlids (other non-aggressive species)
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Small rainbowfish
⚠️ Avoid or Use Caution With
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Aggressive or large cichlids
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Fin-nippers or predatory species
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Fish that stress shy, bottom-dwelling fish
🐣 Breeding Info
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Spawning Method: Cave spawner; pair will guard eggs and fry.
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Parental Care: Both parents care for eggs and fry.
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Fry Care: Feed infusoria or liquid fry food first, then baby brine shrimp.
🌿 Fun Facts
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Named for the keyhole-shaped black spot on its side.
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Extremely peaceful compared to most cichlids, making it ideal for community aquariums.
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Popular among beginner and intermediate aquarists for its easygoing nature.
