How to Breed Keyhole Cichlids

Keyhole cichlids are a sought-after aquarium fish, mostly because they remain relatively small, growing to about 5 inches long, and they are undemanding as far as care is concerned. Keyhole cichlids are also usually peaceful fish, which means they can be kept easily in a community aquarium. These fish are also friendly toward others of their species. This means less stress when breeding them, because they are less likely to injure one another, as more aggressive cichlids sometimes do when spawning. In fact, keyhole cichlids breed readily and generally take care of their young.

Things You'll Need

  • Freshwater aquarium
  • Aquarium plants and decorations
  • Fine substrate
  • Water testing kit
  • Thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a freshwater aquarium for the keyhole cichlids. Although keyhole cichlids are peaceful and will often feel comfortable enough to breed in a community aquarium, other fish may pose a threat to the eggs or the young fish. Therefore, while trying to breed, it's usually best to keep only keyhole cichlids in the breeding aquarium. The aquarium should have many plants and aquarium decorations in it. These provide hiding places for the fish, making them feel more secure.

    • 2

      Spread a substrate of fine gravel or sand at the bottom of the aquarium. Lay some flat rocks around the bottom of the aquarium as well. Keyhole cichlids lay their eggs on flat surfaces. Some fish may want to lay eggs on the substrate, and others will prefer rocks.

    • 3

      Adjust the pH level of the water in the aquarium so that it is between 6.4 and 6.8. Determine the pH level with a water testing kit. Keyhole cichlids can usually tolerate a wider range of pH levels, but this is the best level for breeding. Water additives can be used to adjust the level.

    • 4

      Place a thermometer in the aquarium, and make sure the temperature of the water remains between 75 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 5

      Place a group of keyhole cichlids in the aquarium. Make sure you have some males and females. Males are usually larger than the females. Males also have longer, more-pointed fins. As the fish become comfortable with the aquarium, and as they mature, they will separate into breeding pairs. The size of the group you place in the aquarium depends on the size of the aquarium. An aquarium that is 40 gallons will be big enough for two to four fish.

    • 6

      Wait for the keyhole cichlids to breed. This should happen quickly after the fish have paired off. The pair cleans an area at the bottom of the aquarium. About 300 eggs will be laid. The parent fish guard the eggs until they hatch, about three to five days later. The parents often continue guarding the young fish, for up to six months.