Converting to a Cichlid Tank

Hello. Just registered this morning. I have a 30 gallon tank about 2 years old. I'm looking to do some modifications to the tank, ie., changing the environment. I currently have 3 Rosie Barbs (very healthy and hearty), a Spotted Cory Cat, and a small Algae Eater. I'm looking to switch the tank from a community tank to getting Cichlids. My Rosies are a bit aggressive and have owned the tank for the past 18 months. My Cory is one of the original fish. Might I encounter any problems if I were to change the structure (adding rocks/caves) and add a few Cichlids ??? Very curious. Many thanks for your replies.

Simpleton

 

Re: Newbie Here

Welcome to FishLore! It's great to have you with us! Cichlids are usually pretty aggressive and a lot depends on the species you want to add to the tank. If you can't find a cichlid compatible with your tank size and the fish you already have, you may want to consider trading in some or all of your fish. I think the Rosie barbs would be the biggest challenge as far a compatibility issues go, because they tend to be nippy. There are also so many different cichlids from different regions, and that should be considered as well. The colorful cichlids you usually see in a fish store are probably african cichlids, and I doubt any of your existing fish would be compatible with them except for maybe your algae eater, depending on which type it was. African cichlids are usually very aggressive. Since you are interested in cichlids specifically, here is a great link with cookie cutter set ups for cichlid tanks. If you have any other questions about any of the fish mentioned, please post your questions here, and we will be glad to give you input.

 

I'm looking for some advice on changing my tank over to a Cichlid tank. I started a community fresh water tank about two years ago for my kids. It's been a great experience and a lot of fun. I feel it is time for a change. I have a 30 Gallon tank with a few very healthy and hearty fish...3 Rosie Barbs, a Cory Cat, and a small Algae Eater. The Rosies have been with us for about 18 months and pretty much rule the tank. The Cory is an original fish (2 years). I've been reading a lot about Cichlid Tanks and have a few questions.
It sounds as though I will need to replace the gravel substrate with sand, correct? Also, any chance I can get some Cichlids that will not kill my current fish? I also realize that I will need to change the physical environment around to include rocks/caves. I'm OK with that. My plants are fake...no problems there. Any suggestions or advice would be appreciated. Many thanks to all for your support.

Simpleton

 

Re: Newbie Here

Welcome to fishlore

 

Since the topics were both pretty much the same, I merged them so you would get more posts to your questions, that's why it looks a little funny on this thread.