Cichlid in a semi-aggressive tank?

[emory7]

I have been wanting to purchase a cichlid for a while, but have been discouraged from doing so by a couple of pet store workers who tell me that they are too aggressive for the fish that I currently have. Right now I have an iridescent shark(4"), a pink gourami(3") and a red-finned shark(3") in my tank (all semi-agg. I think). Are there any cichilds that would fit in well in this environment? I know some cichlids are labeled semi-aggressive, but I've been warned against these as well. My primary concern against purchasing a cichlid is that it would begin to attack or eat the other fish as it outgrew them in size. Thanks for the help.

30 gallon tank

I also had somewhat of a side question. I know that the iridescent shark and pink gourami are supposed to grow pretty big, but I have had them almost a year and they haven't grown all that much, particularly the gourami. Any tips with helping growth, or should I just be more patient? Thanks.

 

[jm1212]

first of all, the pet stores label alot of cichlids as semi-agressive because they are terretorial. you might want to try angels, for they are some of the more peaceful cichlids.
second, fish dont grow to maximum size in only a year. ive had my angelfish for a year and its got a ways to go with growing. ive had pink kissers too, and they grow extremely slow.

 

[jm1212]

did you go to a comercial shop (petsmart, petco,) or a small individually owned shop? small buisness owners in this field usually have alot more experience than the average joe that the comercial guys hires.

 

[emory7]

Thanks for the help. I got this advice from a couple different people, but I think both were at commerical stores (it's been awhile since).

 

[blkwdw13]

If it was me with those fish in there already I wouldn't put cichlids in there most of them get to big and most are territorial and would probably harass the others. Maybe try some smaller barbs or some tetras in there.

 

[phanmc]

There are a few cichlids that are mild mannered enough to keep with your fishes. Angelfishes was mentioned and so are some of the dwarf cichlids like blue and bolivian rams, the various apistogrammas, and keyhole cichlid.

Most cichlids are somewhat territorial and you'll need space to keep multiple ones. They will also get agressive during breeding.

 

[Debra Mark]

our ID sharks are both over 3'....and are about 5 years old. Part of the problem with growth will be the size tank they are in...unless they have the room, they'll most likely be stunted.