Keyhole cichlid - Cleithracara maronii

Scientific name: Cleithracara maronii

Common name: Keyhole cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 30°N (214.29 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 27 °C (75.2 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii) originates from the blackwater rivers of South America, particularly in French Guiana and Suriname. These fish are found in slow-moving waterways that are highly vegetated and acidic, offering plenty of hiding spots and foraging areas. Their natural habitat includes areas with dense plant cover and submerged roots, which provide shelter and breeding grounds. Understanding their natural environment is key to replicating these conditions in the aquarium, promoting their natural behaviors and overall well-being.

Tank Setup and General Care

Keyhole Cichlids are peaceful and can be kept in community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive species. A minimum aquarium size of 90 cm (3 feet) in length and 30 cm (1 foot) in width is recommended, providing ample space for these cichlids to swim and establish territories. Use a reliable filtration system to maintain high water quality, as these fish thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water.

To create a comfortable environment, include plenty of hiding places such as caves, driftwood, and densely planted areas to mimic their natural habitat. Use smooth, rounded gravel or sand as a substrate to prevent injury, and ensure that any plants added are robust enough to withstand their occasional digging. Maintain the water temperature between 24-27°C (75.2-80.6°F) and a pH range of 6.6-8.0. While they can tolerate a range of water hardness, keeping the dGH between 12-30°N is ideal. Medium water flow is preferred, so position filter outlets carefully to avoid creating strong currents.

Feeding

Keyhole Cichlids are omnivorous and have a diverse diet in the wild. In the aquarium, they are not picky eaters and will accept a variety of foods. For a staple diet, provide high-quality flake food or cichlid pellets. To ensure balanced nutrition and enhance their coloration, supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Additionally, include some plant matter in their diet by offering blanched peas, spinach, or chopped zucchini. Feeding should be done once or twice daily, providing only what they can consume within a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Sexing

Sexing Keyhole Cichlids can be challenging in their juvenile stage. However, as they mature, males typically grow larger than females and develop more extended fins. Females tend to have a rounder, fuller body, especially when they are carrying eggs. Observing their behavior during breeding times can also help distinguish between the sexes, as males become more territorial and protective of their chosen spawning site.

Breeding

Breeding Keyhole Cichlids is relatively straightforward once a compatible pair is formed. To obtain a breeding pair, it is advisable to purchase a small group of juveniles and allow them to pair off naturally as they mature. Set up a separate breeding tank with an air-driven sponge filter for gentle filtration and reduce the lighting to create a calm environment. Provide flat rocks or similar surfaces as potential spawning sites.

The female will lay her eggs on the selected surface, and the male will fertilize them. Both parents actively participate in guarding the eggs and tending to the fry. The eggs typically hatch within 24-48 hours, depending on the water temperature. After hatching, the fry will become free-swimming within a few days. At this stage, they can be fed newly hatched brine shrimp, infusoria, or powdered fry food. As they grow, they will gradually accept the same diet as the adult fish. Initially, new parents may eat the first few batches of eggs, but they usually improve their parenting skills with experience.

Lifespan

With proper care, Keyhole Cichlids can live up to 7 years or more in captivity. To ensure they reach their full lifespan, maintain stable water conditions, provide a balanced diet, and minimize stress by keeping them in a suitable environment with plenty of hiding places and peaceful tank mates.

Short Description

The Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii) is a popular choice among aquarists due to its peaceful temperament and unique appearance. Named after the keyhole-shaped marking on its body, this species is less aggressive compared to many other cichlids, making it suitable for community tanks. Keyhole Cichlids grow to an average size of 10-12 cm (3.94-4.72 inches) and occupy the middle levels of the aquarium. They are known to be shy and prefer a tank with plenty of hiding places to feel secure. While generally peaceful, they may exhibit territorial behavior during spawning. With the right care and environment, Keyhole Cichlids can thrive and become a charming addition to any freshwater aquarium.

Additional information

Thanks to Jeff Catalina for allowing us to use the pictures.