What size tank do you have ? This is kind of important when choosing tank mates for these or any cichlid. Cichlids like to dig, and rearrange their tanks regularly so any plants that you add probably won't last long. All of my cichlid tanks are decorated with rocks, flower pots, and drift woods. They seem to like this kind of setup the best in my experience. If you want to go with plants maybe Angels or Discus might be a better choice over the F.M.s. If you have a smaller tank maybe Rams or Apistos.