Keyhole Cichlids

Keyhole cichlids are native to the coastal streams of Venezuela and Guianas. Growing up to 10cm in length, Keyhole cichlids are a naturally timid fish that feel secure when there are small shoaling fish, like tetras, around. These small fish help signal that there are no dangers nearby. While they can be territorial during breeding, they are generally peaceful tank mates.

They can adapt to various water conditions as long as they remain stable.

Keyhole cichlid prefer a calm aquarium environment and should not be placed in a new tank, as they are sensitive to poor water quality. Males can grow to about 7-10 cm (4 inches) and are slightly bigger than females, with longer dorsal and anal fins that reach the end of their tail.

To mimic their natural environment,  reduce their stress and encourage their bright gold and blue undertones, provide a fine substrate such as sand or fine gravel. Also consider using hardscape materials like driftwood and rocks to create hiding places. Keyhole cichlids thrive in planted aquariums, so keeping some areas of you tank densely planted will reduce their shyness. 

At Wirral Aquatics we feed them EBO artemia, insect, mussel sticks and frozen brine shrimp with garlic.