The Keyhole Cichlid is a type of cichlid from tropical South America. It lives in the lower Orinoco Basin in Venezuela and river basins in The Guianas. It’s the only species in the Cleithracara genus.
Keyhole Cichlid is popular among aquarium hobbyists.
It lives in small, clear water creeks near the coast with little current and lots of decaying wood. Its diet consists of worms, crustaceans, and insects.
When scared, this fish hides against a log and changes its color to blend in.
Keyhole Cichlids lay about 600 eggs on flat stones and take care of them until they hatch.
Keyhole Cichlid Interesting Facts
- Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii) is native to South America, found in the Orinoco Basin and river basins of The Guianas.
- This fish changes color to blend in with logs when scared, hiding from predators.
- Keyhole Cichlids lay up to 600 eggs on flat stones and care for them until they hatch.
- Ideal living conditions for Keyhole Cichlids include a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0, water hardness up to 20 dH, and temperatures between 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C).
Keyhole Cichlid Habitat
The Keyhole Cichlid is a fish native to South America. It’s found in Trinidad, the Orinoco River basin (delta), and various rivers between the Barima River (Guyana) and the Ouanary River (French Guiana).
This fish lives in brackish and freshwater environments that are close to the bottom of the water.
Keyhole Cichlid prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 and a water hardness of up to 20 dH. The ideal temperature for this tropical fish is between 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C).
| Water Temperature: | 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.0 to 8.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | Up to 20 dH |
Keyhole Cichlid Physical Characteristics
Size: 2.8 inches (7.1 centimeters)
Keyhole Cichlids can grow up to 7.1 cm in length.
Keyhole Cichlid Reproduction
The Keyhole Cichlid lays its eggs on hard surfaces. It can lay up to 600 eggs at a time.
Both the mother and father protect the eggs and baby fish (larvae).
Keyhole Cichlid Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Cleithracara |
| Scientific Name: | Cleithracara maronii |
| Also Known As: | Keyhole Cichlid |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |