Keyhole Cichlid

Native to South America, keyhole cichlids are freshwater fish that live in slow-moving bodies of water covered in thick vegetation. They are primarily found in coastal streams, tributaries, and river basins. Venezuela’s lower Orinoco basin is home to many of the keyhole cichlids.

Keyhole Cichlids Facts

• Natives of Venezuela have called the keyhole cichlid various names, including Prapra, Pakawété boko olékopo, Awalipa, and Awifi.
• Keyhole cichlids are not particularly fast swimmers and are known for their calm, slow-moving behavior.
• When these fish feel stressed, their skin color will change from yellow-cream to brown.
• These fish kiss one another during courting.
• If they feel threatened, they can blend in with their surroundings by changing their color.

Classification and Scientific Name

Scientifically known as Cleithracara maronii, the Keyhole cichlid belongs to the family Cichlidae. Their name originates from the distinctive keyhole pattern on their body.

Appearance

The most distinctive feature of this fish is the black keyhole mark on its upper flank. This secondary marking is located on the fish’s face, which displays a black vertical line that extends across the head and passes through the eye.

Their body consists of yellow-cream colored scales; however, different keyhole fish species have different fin colors. Additionally, with age, keyhole cichlids’ coloring lightens.

The dorsal and anal fins of keyhole cichlids are long and slender. They differ from other cichlid species by having rounded foreheads and oval-shaped bodies.

Distribution, Population, and Habitat

The species of this fish is found in Central and South America. It has a wide distribution, ranging from the Atlantic coast of Panama to the Amazon River basin in Brazil. It is a freshwater fish that inhabits slow-moving rivers, streams, and lakes. The population of the keyhole cichlid fish is considered stable; unfortunately, it’s threatened by habitat destruction and pollution. This fish species prefers to live in shallow, murky waters in areas with plenty of vegetation. It is a carnivore that feeds on insects, crustaceans, and small fish.

Predators and Prey

In the wild, the keyhole cichlid predators include larger fish, such as the piranha and birds of prey. Other potential predators include snakes, caimans, and other aquatic animals.

In addition, the keyhole cichlid is also preyed upon by other fish, such as the oscar and the discus. To protect itself against certain predators, the keyhole cichlid will hide in rocks and crevices and use its bright colors to blend in with its surroundings.

Reproduction and Lifespan

These fish reproduce by laying eggs on a flat rock or a hard surface. The male is responsible for providing a suitable location so the female can lay her eggs. The female will lay up to 500 eggs, which the male guards until these eggs hatch. During this time, the male will fan the eggs with his fins to keep the eggs oxygenated and free of debris.

The eggs will then hatch within a few days, and both parents will take care of the young fish (now called fry) until they can swim and look for food. After this stage, the male will no longer guard the fry, and the female will take over caring for them.

The lifespan of the keyhole cichlid is usually between 5 and 10 years. However, they are a hardy species and can live longer with proper care.

Keyhole Cichlid Population

The population of this fish found in the wild is stable, as it is not considered to be threatened or endangered. Furthermore, this popular aquarium fish is a peaceful species well-suited to a community tank, making these fish a popular choice for aquarists.