20 Keyhole Cichlid Tank Mates
Learn which are the best tank mates for keyhole cichlids. This guide identifies and analyzes 20 diverse fish species, chosen for their compatibility, size, and temperament, that can share a tank harmoniously with the keyhole cichlid, thus promoting a thriving and peaceful community aquarium.
Silver Dollar
Silver Dollar is a fish species that is popular among aquarists for its unique appearance and peaceful nature. Originating from South America, these fish have a round, silvery body, resembling a silver coin. They can be an excellent tank mate for keyhole cichlids.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys a diet of veggies, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
To maintain a harmonious community tank, ensure that the Silver Dollar has enough space to swim and will not feel cramped. Their calm nature and adaptability make them one of the best tank mates for keyhole cichlids.
Angelfish
Angelfish are one of the most elegant and beautiful fish species in the aquarium hobby. This South American cichlid charms aquarists with its striking appearance and graceful movements. Angelfish can be an excellent companion for the keyhole cichlid in a community tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm) tall and 4 inches (10 cm) long
When pairing angelfish with keyhole cichlids, it’s essential to monitor their behavior. Though angelfish are generally peaceful, they may become territorial if they feel crowded. Ensure there are plenty of hiding spots and enough room for both species to coexist in harmony.
Severum Cichlid
Severum Cichlids, another South American cichlid species, make an interesting addition to an aquarium with keyhole cichlids. Known for their unique colors and patterns, they bring visual variety to a community tank.
- Compatibility: 3.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys pellets, flakes, and live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)
Though relatively peaceful, Severum cichlids can exhibit aggressive behavior when competing for food or territory. To ensure a harmonious tank, provide ample hiding spots and maintain a suitable tank size for accommodating both species. Monitor their interactions and adjust tank conditions accordingly to maintain a balanced and thriving aquatic environment.
Tiger Barbs
Tiger Barbs, an active and colorful fish species native to Southeast Asia, can bring life and energy to a tank with keyhole cichlids. Known for their vibrant stripes and playful behavior, they make an eye-catching addition to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Tiger Barbs can be nippy, especially when kept in small groups. To minimize aggression, keep them in a shoal of at least six individuals. Ensure the tank is large enough for both species, offering ample swimming space to prevent territorial disputes.
Adding plants and hiding spots can create a more harmonious environment, promoting coexistence between tiger barbs and keyhole cichlids.
Black Skirt Tetra
Black Skirt Tetras, native to South America, make for an excellent tank mate with keyhole cichlids. Their striking black markings and peaceful nature allow them to fit perfectly in a community tank.
- Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Black Skirt Tetras thrive in schools of six or more, so keeping them in groups helps maintain their social behavior and reduces stress. When selecting tank mates for keyhole cichlids, Black Skirt Tetras should be high on the list, as they offer a harmonious and visually pleasing addition to your aquarium.
Ensure a sufficient tank size and hiding spaces to maintain a peaceful environment for all inhabitants.
Blue Acara Cichlid
Blue Acara Cichlids are a vibrant and stunning species from the regions of Central and South America. Their peaceful nature and hardy disposition make them a suitable companion for keyhole cichlids.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Though they’re generally peaceful, Blue Acara Cichlids may display territorial behavior during breeding. Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots can help maintain a stress-free environment for all tank inhabitants.
By carefully selecting tank mates and optimizing tank conditions, you can create an aquatic community where both Blue Acara Cichlids and keyhole cichlids thrive together harmoniously.
Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eaters, originating from Southeast Asia, are a beneficial addition to a keyhole cichlid tank. These fish are not only peaceful but also play a vital role in maintaining the tank’s cleanliness by consuming algae.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivore, feed on algae and can be supplemented with vegetable-based pellets and blanched vegetables
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Siamese Algae Eaters are a great companion for keyhole cichlids because of their easy-going nature and compatibility with various fish species. These fish help control algae growth in the aquarium, ensuring a healthy environment for all tank inhabitants.
Remember to provide enough hiding spots and swimming space to maintain harmony between the Siamese Algae Eater and keyhole cichlids.
Pencilfish
Pencilfish, small and slender fish from South America, make a harmonious tank mate for keyhole cichlids. Their calm demeanor and striking appearance add charm and balance to a diverse aquarium setup.
- Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore, prefer live and frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
To maintain a peaceful environment for pencilfish and keyhole cichlids, it is essential to provide plenty of hiding spots and plants. Pencilfish thrive in groups, so keep them in small schools of five to six individuals. Their compatibility and pleasant nature make pencilfish an excellent choice for keyhole cichlid tank mates.
Zebra Danio
Zebra Danios, small and active fish native to South Asia, are a favorite among aquarists and can be a suitable companion for keyhole cichlids. Their playful nature and striking striped appearance add life to any aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
For a successful tank setup, it’s crucial to keep Zebra Danios in groups of at least five to prevent aggressive behavior. Provide ample swimming room and a well-rounded habitat, including hiding spots, for both Zebra Danios and keyhole cichlids to coexist in harmony. Pay attention to their compatibility and create a thriving, lively aquatic community.
Hatchetfish
Hatchetfish, native to South America, are an intriguing addition to a keyhole cichlid tank. With their unusual body shape resembling a hatchet, these fish are sure to capture the attention of anyone observing your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore, prefer live and frozen foods like insects, larvae, and small crustaceans
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)
To maintain a harmonious environment, keep hatchetfish in groups of five or more to reduce stress and establish a social hierarchy. Provide a secure, well-planted tank with a tight-fitting lid, as hatchetfish can be excellent jumpers. Their peaceful temperament and intriguing appearance make them a worthy choice for sharing a tank with keyhole cichlids.
Bolivian Ram
Bolivian Rams, a colorful dwarf cichlid from South America, are a great choice for a keyhole cichlid tank. Their attractive markings and peaceful disposition make them a wonderful addition to a community aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
When introducing Bolivian Rams into a keyhole cichlid tank, ensure there are plenty of hiding spaces for both species to coexist peacefully.
Bolivian Rams may become territorial during breeding, but their overall compatibility and relaxed nature make them an excellent tank mate for keyhole cichlids. Simply maintain a suitable tank size and monitor their behavior for a successful and diverse aquatic environment.
Kuhli Loach
Kuhli Loaches, fascinating eel-like fish from Southeast Asia, make an entertaining and compatible addition to a keyhole cichlid tank. Their peaceful nature and distinctive appearance contribute to biodiversity in the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer sinking pellets, live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
Kuhli Loaches prefer soft, sandy substrates and a well-planted tank with ample hiding spots, as they are more active during nighttime. These fish should be kept in groups of at least three to encourage natural behavior. Their compatibility and peaceful temperament make them a perfect tank mate for keyhole cichlids, creating a harmonious underwater world.
Pearl Gourami
Pearl Gouramis, elegantly adorned fish native to Southeast Asia, can be an excellent addition to a keyhole cichlid tank. Their mesmerizing patterns and tranquil temperament make them a versatile and attractive tank mate.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 4.5 inches (11.4 cm)
To create a harmonious environment for pearl gouramis and keyhole cichlids, provide a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and ample swimming areas. Keep in mind that pearl gouramis can be shy, so monitor interactions to maintain a stress-free and diverse aquatic environment where both species can thrive together.
Rummy Nose Tetra
Rummy Nose Tetras, vibrantly colored fish hailing from South America, serve as an enchanting addition to a keyhole cichlid tank. Their characteristic red “nose” and dazzling tail patterns create visual interest and a dynamic environment.
- Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Rummy Nose Tetras thrive in groups, so keeping them in schools of six or more ensures their well-being and reduces stress. Providing a well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots ensures that both rummy nose tetras and keyhole cichlids can coexist in harmony, creating a visually stunning and peaceful aquarium.
Golden Barbs
Golden Barbs, originating from Southeast Asia, can add a splash of vibrant color and energy to your keyhole cichlid tank. Their radiant appearance and social nature make them a delightful addition to any aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2.4 inches (6 cm)
To create a harmonious environment for golden barbs and keyhole cichlids, keep golden barbs in groups of at least six individuals. Along with plants and hiding spots, provide ample swimming space for all species to coexist peacefully. Golden barbs are an excellent choice for keyhole cichlid tank mates, contributing to a lively and diverse aquatic community.
Swordtail Fish
Swordtail Fish, a captivating species native to North and Central America, make a striking addition to a keyhole cichlid tank. Their elongated tails and dazzling colors add visual interest and compliment the other fish species.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
When adding Swordtail Fish to a keyhole cichlid tank, it’s essential to provide a well-balanced habitat with plenty of plants and hiding spots for everyone. Their non-aggressive nature and striking appearance make Swordtail Fish a suitable tank mate for keyhole cichlids, contributing to a well-rounded and visually appealing aquatic environment.
Corydoras
Corydoras, also known as Cory Catfish, are small, energetic bottom-dwellers from South America. These peaceful fish are a perfect tank mate for keyhole cichlids, adding diversity and a captivating charm to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy sinking pellets, live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)
Keep Corydoras in groups of at least six to maintain their social nature and reduce stress. Provide a soft, sandy substrate to protect their sensitive barbels and add hiding spots for a harmonious and attractive environment. Their peaceful temperament and compatibility make Corydoras an ideal tank mate for keyhole cichlids.
Hoplo Catfish
Hoplo Catfish, a fascinating species from South America, can be a delightful tank mate for keyhole cichlids. These bottom-dwelling fish add a unique and enchanting touch to your aquatic community.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy sinking pellets, live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
To create a harmonious environment for Hoplo Catfish and keyhole cichlids, ensure there’s enough space for both species to coexist. These fish prefer a fine, sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spots.
Their peaceful temperament and intriguing appearance make Hoplo Catfish an appealing and compatible tank mate for keyhole cichlids, contributing to a diverse and captivating aquatic ecosystem.
Cherry Barbs
Cherry Barbs, are small and vibrant fish native to Sri Lanka, bring a splash of color and energy to a keyhole cichlid tank. These social fish can add life and diversity to your aquarium community.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Cherry Barbs thrive in schools of at least six individuals, helping maintain their social behavior. Ensuring plenty of hiding spots and swimming areas allows both Cherry Barbs and keyhole cichlids to coexist peacefully. The vibrant colors and compatibility make Cherry Barbs a fantastic tank mate for keyhole cichlids, adding both visual interest and diversity to your aquatic habitat.
Serpae Tetras
Serpae Tetras, striking fish native to South America, can be a suitable companion for keyhole cichlids. Their fiery red coloration adds contrast and visual interest to the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
To maintain a serene environment, keep Serpae Tetras in groups of at least six to diffuse aggression and establish a social structure. Provide ample swimming space and hiding spots to ensure both Serpae Tetras and keyhole cichlids can coexist. Monitor the tank closely to maintain harmony, and adjust accordingly to create a lively and diverse aquatic community.
Conclusion
Selecting compatible tank mates for keyhole cichlids is essential for a healthy, diverse, and visually appealing aquatic environment. The 20 fish species mentioned here create a foundation to build your community tank. Feel free to share your experiences, preferences, or questions in the comments below.
