Keyhole cichlid

The keyhole cichlid is a small, retiring cichlid of the family Cichlidae, native to slow, soft blackwater streams and pools of the Guianas and lower Orinoco region in South America. It is named for the keyhole-shaped dark blotch on its beige to tan flank, and it can rapidly darken or pale with mood. It is one of the most peaceful and shy of the New World cichlids, well suited to calm community tanks and best kept as a bonded pair. A planted aquarium with driftwood, leaf litter, gentle filtration and dim lighting helps this timid fish feel secure and color up. Soft, slightly acidic water is preferred but it adapts to moderate conditions. It is an omnivore taking pellets, flake and small frozen foods such as bloodworm and brine shrimp. It is a substrate-spawning, biparental species, and its calm temperament makes it a good introduction to cichlid breeding.