firemouth cichlids

Question
I have a 25 gallon tall tank. I recently purchased four juvenile fire mouth cichlids. all four are under two inches in size. I purchased four in hopes of getting a breeding pair, or a small haram (One male and maybe two females) the guy who sold them too me said firemouths are difficult to sex as juveniles and that I should purchase four to ensure a male female pair down the road. the problem is that they are already starting to become aggressive towards one another. The tank is well filtered and aerated with several hiding spots for the fish. They are constantly fin nipping and Im worried about stress. Suggestions? additionally if all four survive I will place them In a larger tank in a few months but cant yet because of financial restrictions

Answer
Hi Ryan,

Mine did the same thing.  Eventually, the male chose one female and the two males fought so much, I decided to remove all other firemouths.

I suggest the same for you.  They are highly aggressive toward others, male or female.

I'd keep one pair, once they pair off and then would not worry about aggression as much.

My suggestion is that if you do keep all 4, that you indeed increase tank size, as 25 gallons is insufficient for four cichilds who are aggressive with each other, and someone may perish.

Your question was in the question pool today. I know it's probably been quite awhile since you asked it, so I want to ask you not to hold it against me for the other expert's tardiness in responding.  It was just given to the rest of us today, so I picked your question as soon as it arrived. :)  Rate me appropriately, please, as I strive to give professional answers, in a timely fashion...and please don't blame me for the late response.  It wasn't asked of me, but of another expert, initially.

Happy fish-keeping!

Renee