Maroni Cichlid
Cleithracara maronii
Cleithracara maronii reaches 8 to 10 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, beige to light brown, with irregular black spots on the flanks and a dark spot on the operculum. The fins are transparent with light spots. It is a shy and peaceful fish that lives in pairs or small groups. It prefers acidic, soft water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Breeding occurs on a hard substrate (stone, root) and the parents guard the eggs and fry. It is sensitive to water quality.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–27 |
| pH | 5.5–6.5 |
| GH | 2–6 |
| KH | 1–3 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
Care
Care notes
A minimum 80-liter aquarium is recommended for a pair. Water should be acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and soft (GH 2-6), with a temperature of 24-27°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are suitable. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid aggressive fish; peaceful tetras, corydoras, and small loricariids are good tankmates. Provide hiding places with roots, stones, and plants. Regular water changes (20% per week) are important. Breeding is possible in a community tank if conditions are stable.