Keyhole cichlid

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Orinoco river basin (Venezuela, Trinidad) and coastal basins of the Guianas. Takes shelter in slow waters of forest streams with banks covered by lush vegetation.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii). Dwarf cichlid (often aggregated to the Acaras), reaches 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) at most. Very high and laterally flattened body, almost discoidal. Very small mouth.

Social Behavior: Famous for being the MOST PEACEFUL and timid cichlid existing in the aquarium hobby. Does not dig, does not destroy plants, does not attack tankmates (not even of its own species) and tends to hide at the slightest fright.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Very soft beige-cream background. The name (Keyhole) derives from the old keyhole-shaped black maculation it has in the middle of the flank. If frightened it fills with dark spots to camouflage. No dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: 80-100 cm (32-40 inches) tank. Loves heavily planted aquariums, slightly amber water, dimmed lights or covered by floating plants and many dens made with twisted roots where it can retreat.

Diet and Feeding: Micro-predator and omnivore. Equipped with a tiny mouth, must be fed with very small caliber granular feed that sinks slowly, fine bloodworms and daphnia. Very slow to feed.

Water Quality: Prefers soft and neutral/sub-acidic waters. Extremely robust fish, but does not tolerate sudden thermal shocks or parameter fluctuations, which terrify it pushing it to bang against the glass.

Compatibility and Tankmates: THE PERFECT COMMUNITY FISH. Coexists splendidly with any Tetra, Corydoras or Loricariid. Absolutely to be avoided restless tankmates (e.g. Tiger Barbs) or aggressive cichlids that would make it die of stress.

Aquarium Reproduction: Forms very close-knit pairs. They lay dozens of eggs on smooth stones. Exceptional fact for cichlids, if the brood fails or they get scared, they do not attack the partner but try again in peace.

Risks and Diseases: It is almost never seen in shops because as a juvenile (2 cm) it is drab gray and frightened and does not attract attention. Its biggest threat is undernutrition caused by keeping it together with fish that are too fast and steal its food.