Compatability between cichlids and others

Question
I have a yellow and blue cichlid, they were put into a tank with some albino catfish(sucker fish) and some clown loaches.  The blue one ate at least 5 of the catfish, was chasing the other yellow cichlid and has since been removed from the tank.  He is now on his own.  The yellow one remains and is chasing the other smaller fish.  I was wondering what can I do?  SHould I be worried? And what other bottom feeding fish could a safely put in the tank to help maintain cleanliness?  Also would i ever be able to put the blue one back in the tank with all the others?

Answer
Hi Emma,
 It is possible that the blue one ate the catfish but it is also possible that the catfish died and then the cichlid ate the bodies (that seems much more likely to me).  

 Chasing by cichlids is very normal.  The best way to reduce aggression in a fish tank is to provide lots of structure. Structure can be wood, rock and/or plants (live or plastic) that breaks up the space and allows weaker fish a place to hide, should they need it.  I regard a tank as having a lot of structure when you can't see the back of it from the front.  One or two plants or bits of wood is not sufficient for a cichlid tank.

  Catfish should not be thought of as tank cleaners.  They are interesting fish to keep, but tank cleanliness is basically up to you.  You need to do regularly weekly partial water changes.  I recommend changing 25% of the water once a week, every week to keep your tank happy and healthy.

-- Ron
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
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