|   Fish Profile   |

Keyhole Cichlid
   Cleithracara maronii

Origin: South America   |   Approx Size: 4 inches

   My Experience (summary of my own keeping)

A favorite among fish hobbyists, including myself especially, keyhole cichlids break the mold. The cichlid stereotype is of a brutish, although intelligent fish, that are difficult to combine into any community tank. Keyhole cichlids are extremely peaceful, even shy, which seems to highlight their intelligent mentality.

These fish prefer an aquarium with driftwood, rock or plant matter to hide behind. Driftwood and dither fish seem to work best, as well as some plants. Also, the fish enjoy "perching" on flat rocks or other surfaces when investigating their environment.

Their peaceful demeanor, both amongst themselves and other species, and unique behavior, make them ideal community fish. They will defend themselves against smaller species, however. For example, I once had a group of keyhole cichlids that liked to stay on one side of the aquarium and hover around a large piece of driftwood. A territorial Apistogramma sp. was also in the aquarium and liked to pester the larger keyhole cichlids by flaring his fins, arching his spine and other aggressive displays. The keyhole cichlids reminded me of documentaries and movies about brontosauruses and other long-necked dinosaurs defending themselves from voracious predators; they would back into the Apistogramma sp. and swat at it with their tails. It was effective in dis-persuading the fish to act any further. One reason for this type of attack might be the trademark "keyhole" between the dorsal and caudal fins. The keyhole might act as an eye, glaring at the attacker while the keyhole cichlid defends itself with its tail. Or I just had odd fish.

   Basic Behavior (based upon observations, readings and conversations)

Peaceful, especially for a cichlid. Enjoys driftwood and flat rocks. Intelligent.

   Food Preference (brands and types)

Tetra® TetraMin® Tropical Flakes

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