Jewel Cichlids for a 40 Breeder

[RTCfan86]

I’m considering getting some small Jewel Cichlids for my 40 breeder (36” x 18” footprint). How many would be recommended for this size tank? I
imagine I’ll need to remove any extras once a pair forms.

Additionally, would it be possible to keep some kind of small to medium sized catfish with them (that I would purchase very small)? I’m not worried about fry being picked off if breeding occurs.

 

[Deadeye]

Like any cichlid, I would do a group of 6-8 and wait until a pair forms.
As for a cat, I would look into smaller synodontis or a raphael.

 

[tangkid]

I've seen groups of exsul work in a 40 long term. Start with 6-8 and have a backup if necessary. Also kind of cheating but Anomalochromis may or may not be jewels too (common names suck)