Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameCleithracara maronii

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asKeyhole, Aequidens maronii

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietomnivore

Adult size4 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-12 dGH

Appearance

Tan-to-silver body with a distinctive keyhole-shaped black blotch on the upper flank and a black eye bar. Modest, understated coloring that darkens with mood.

Difficulty and care for the Keyhole Cichlid

Easy

Origin and habitat

Coastal northeastern South America (Guyana, Venezuela)

Keeper notes

One of the most peaceful and shy cichlids; rarely aggressive even when breeding. Easily intimidated, so avoid boisterous tankmates. May eat very small shrimp but is generally gentle. An excellent calm community cichlid.

Log Keyhole Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Keyhole Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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