Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii)

The Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii) is native to river systems of northeastern South America — the Marowijne (Maroni) River basin in Suriname and French Guiana, and possibly adjacent Guyana. It inhabits slow-moving, heavily vegetated rivers, streams, and flooded forest areas with soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic water.

The common name refers to the distinctive dark marking on the upper posterior body that can resemble a keyhole shape — a black patch with a downward extension. However, this marking is highly variable and may be expressed as a simple circular spot, an irregular patch, or the characteristic keyhole shape depending on the fish's mood, stress level, and individual variation. A dark stripe running through the eye completes the pattern. The overall body color is warm olive-tan to gold-brown with subtle iridescence.

Keyholes are among the most gentle and retiring of all cichlid species. They are genuinely shy fish that startle easily and may hide frequently when first introduced to a new aquarium. With time and a secure environment, they become bolder and are fascinating to observe, particularly when breeding pairs tend their eggs and fry with devoted biparental care.

As substrate spawners, Keyhole Cichlids clean flat surfaces for egg deposition and provide excellent parental care. Despite their peaceful reputation, breeding pairs will temporarily defend a modest territory around the spawning site.

Keyhole Cichlids prefer soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water: pH 6.0–7.5, hardness 3–15 dGH, and temperatures 22–28°C. They adapt to a range of conditions but do best in clean water with stable parameters.

A minimum 100-liter aquarium suits a pair or small group. Dense plantings of broad-leaved plants (Amazon swords, Anubias), driftwood, and hiding spots are essential — Keyhole Cichlids are shy and need refuge. Flat stones or broad plant leaves provide spawning surfaces. A dark substrate and subdued lighting increase their confidence.

Feed quality dwarf cichlid pellets, flake food, and varied live or frozen supplements: small bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and cyclops. They may initially be reluctant to feed in a new environment — patience and a quiet aquarium environment are beneficial.

Keyhole Cichlids are genuinely safe with virtually all peaceful community species. They can be kept with small tetras, rasboras, corydoras, armored catfish, and other non-aggressive fish. Avoid housing with aggressive or boisterous species that will stress these timid fish.

Pairs form devoted bonds and can be kept long-term together. Breeding activity is gentle — the modest territorial behavior during spawning rarely extends beyond the immediate nest site. Regular water changes of 25–30% weekly maintain water quality.