4 Cichlids in a 15 gallon

Question
When i bought the cichlids they were all small.  Now they are all growing and space is now getting tight.  3 of them are about 4 inches and one of them is about 1-2 inches.  Getting a new tank is an option but i do have many hiding spaces in this tank.  I know you are going to tell me that the 15 gallon is way too small for more than 2 fish.  But i would just like some advice on how i should set up more hiding spots.  One of the fish is def the Beta fish and they are all afraid of him.  But he seems to pick on the smallest fish the most.  Should i just make the tank all hiding spots and not really any open space?  Thanks Brian.

Answer
Hello
You are right a 15 gallon is way too small for cichlids.  The betta is out of place here.  I don't know which cichlids you are talking about, so it's a little hard to give you any advice, but I would certainly look into buying a much bigger aquarium.  Hiding places take up lots of room, and you don't have the room to accommodate your fish, I'm sorry to tell you.  Fish need lots of open place to swim, they would be quite unhappy with no place to swim.  They are fish, and they do have feelings.  Spending a lifetime hidden in hiding spots unable to swim is cruel.  If I were you I would look into trading my cichlids for other fish.
Lynda

I'm very sorry to tell you that a fifteen gallon tank is too small for cichlids, unless you get drawf cichlids.  In that case you would be able to put 3 in.  Your betta should not be in with cichlids.  Cichlids are very aggressive, small or big, and should be kept with Cichlids.  Cichlids are really not a beginners fish.   You must read up on them as they are many different kinds of Cichlids, some more aggresive than others.  Most get very big.  African Cichlids do not mix with American Cichlids, and there are reasons for this.  There habitat is different, the water conditions are different.  
There are many beautiful little fish that you could put in your 15 gallon.  The Tetra family have beautiful little fish, that would be happy in a 15 gallon tank.  You could then keep your betta in the tank.  You could also put in 2 little cat fish with your tetras.  They are really cute.  Small Gouramis, like the Honey Gourami are very nice too.  If you go to your Pet Store, and ask the fish manager what you could put in your 15 gallon, I am sure he will guide you, and if he is a nice guy, he will take your Cichlids back in exchange.
Hope this helps you
Lynda