Yeah you'd probably be ok depending on the species. Stay away from Azul, Temensis, Pinima. If you can go for Kelberi they are the smallest growing ( about 12" the first year then really slow to about 18") or you could go with an Orino as they are the slowest growing but can eventually reach 20-22", but they are also considered the meanest cichla. If I were you I'd go for Kelberi