Mixed Americans capacity

[Loki88]

Hi all,
I've got a 6ft 180gallon American community tank with 2x green terrors, 2x salvinis,3x elec blue acaras,1 convict,1 Jack Dempsey. They're all still pretty young at about 2- 4 inches. Currently running an fx6 and a large sponge filter. Will likely add another fx6 when they get bigger.
My question is, am I able to add more fish or am I at capacity?
Tia

 

[Deadeye]

I’d say that’s the most for when they grow up. If things pair off, it will be a bloodbath though.

 

[Loki88]

I’d say that’s the most for when they grow up. If things pair off, it will be a bloodbath though.

Yeah thats why I figured. I know my GTS are male and female, not sure about the rest. Was hoping I could fit in one more. Buying a new fish is probably my favourite part of the hobby

 

[dogofwar]

Capacity really depends on whether the salvini are a pair and breed. Green terrors are likely the bottom of the aggression scale.

Worry less about filtration and more about water changes (and keeping the filters clean).

 

[Gourami Swami]

In a 180, I'd say you will be full. Cichlid communities are a balancing act, chances are you will have to change the stock at some point or another.

 

[Cich Mind]

Hey L Loki88 ,
As most others have stated your stock in that tank is pretty much at mass capacity. It probably doesn't seem that full right now because you're fish are all small juvies. Give it 6-12 months and that tank will start to fill up quickly. I'd keep an eye on the Acara as they are the least aggro. I'd watch the Salvini too, they can be quite nasty, especially if they pair up. With your stock if there is breeding it could cause some mayhem. You still have a tank with lots of interesting fish though. It's all just a balancing act in the end. GL

 

[duanes]

In a 180, I'd say you will be full. Cichlid communities are a balancing act, chances are you will have to change the stock at some point or another.

Agree,
in fact by the time they are all adults, I believe you will need to remove a few, not add.
That's why most serious cichlid keepers have multiple tanks.
The largest tank I am running at the moment is a 180, and I believe 4 medium cichlids and some dithers in it is about maxed out.
I started with about a dozen young Andinoacara coerleopunctatus (close (but smaller) cousin to your GTs.
The alpha pair, reduced that number (assassinated) on their own, to 5 left (the pair, and 3 females).