What Single Cichlid to go with Loaches?

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H

Hoplosternum

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Mar 2, 2007
6
0
0
Romford, UK
Hi, I have a 240 litre Juwel tank (about 55 UK Gallons) with extra filtration containing a group of Clown and Modesta Loaches. Ranging from 3-5" in size. There are also a couple of Stripped Doras and a Plec. Up until last year there was also a Green Terror but he has now passed away. The tank decor is Bogwood, flowerpots, Slate and sand.

I am now looking for a replacement. I don't really want to get a pair of Cichlids as they will either breed (and fight the loaches) or fight each other. But I do miss having a centre piece fish. The Loaches and Doras tend to like to hide away a lot.

I am considering upgrading the size of my tank, but I don't want to buy a cichlid that will require me to do so.

Could anyone suggest a suitable replacement Cichlid? Loaches are pretty tough and certainly in the case of the green terror the only disputes were between the GT and the Doras and Plec. There is plenty of cover in the tank. I'd like a Cichlid that is visually impressive but is not going to kill my Loaches. A bit like my GT. But I'd rather try something different this time if there is an alternative. Any suggestions?
 
Well, I'm not sure what preferences you have toward cichlids. I really enjoy my Salvinis. I understand though, that they may be a bit hard to find in the UK. A blue acara would work well, although very similar to your green terror. You could do a pastel cichlid, or even a rainbow cichlid. I would say that any severum or chocolate cichlid would work. Basically, don't get anything who's max size would exceed 10". You have many options. Good luck.
 
In my experience, nearly every fish leaves loaches alone. Even if loaches are not native to their home range, fish seem to know that loaches are killers if you try to eat them.
 
Thanks! We sometimes get Salvinis but they are rare around here. I might get a Blue Acara as i kept them when I was a kid and have fond memories.

The Chocolate is something else to think about, but they are pricey and I believe hard to keep.

I've noticed most things leave loaches alone, but Cichlids can be brutal so I was looking fore a bit of reassurance that most mid sized Cichlids would be OK.

Would a Jack Dempsey be OK? Or would that be pushing it.

Cheers.
 
single convict?
 
Maybe a couple of discus or angels? Even if they were to breed, they never bother any other fish.
 
yeah i would say a JD would be alright but get a juv so he'll proberly be the smallest in the tank but not for long, their less aggressive when brought up together.
 
i vote rot sev but i would personally take a DOVII! lol jk, but i would probs keep a (if you dont mind hybrids) a single parrot cichlid or a few angels
 
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