New to cichlids and need a plan

[OldMan1947]

I will be picking up about 6 rainbow cichlid juvies (herotilapia multispinosa) on Thursday when I go to visit my son's family. My problem is simple I hope. I am looking at putting them in a 29 gallon as a first grow out tank since they are only about 1 inch long now. Tank parameters are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate and 7.2 pH. My water from the tap is about 10 to 12 dH but I haven't received my test kit yet to confirm it in the aquarium. All seems good from what I have been reading but here goes the questions.
Would it be OK to leave these fish in with a group of platies and maybe some cories? I love cories but have read that when cichlids get territorial they are hard on other bottom dwellers. The concern about the platies is more about the size difference. They will be almost as big as a platy when I get them and I know they can get much larger. At that point will the platies be considered food?
The mixed tank could be only temporary as I am in the process of cycling a 40 breeder for these guys but it will no way be ready when they arrive. The 29 is almost empty but has good water and is being maintained cycled with minimal fish load. It also includes some easy low light plants but not enough to buffer 6 new fish. I expect and am ready to deal with a mini cycle.

 

[Star_Rider]

I believe this particular cichlid is primarily an algae eating species.
they do not get very big and are generally they are also considered a 'good' community tank cichlid.

tho they tend not to fare as well in a 'cichlid tank'

as for adding them..you are ready for a 'mini; cycle and as long as you are prepared to do the water maintenance you should be fine. since you already have live filter material.

 

[OldMan1947]

Thanks star rider. I needed some reassurance since my only experience with cichlids is angels. Is that a V-star?

 

[Star_Rider]

no Prob

it's a Roadstar
I'm yankin the engine this winter..may do a big bore kit on it

 

[OldMan1947]

Royal star myself but too new to be messing with it.
The platies are set up now so maybe I can take a short cycle step before the rainbows arrive in 2 more days. There are only 4 platies and they are young enough to only be about 1 1/4 inches long. If I can get that short spike going before the rainbows arrive they will be better off by spending less time in the disturbed water.

 

[zachjohnson65]

My two rainbows cichlid are doing great in a medium mixed cichlid tank. they do seem to be very calm for a cichlid. I do not think the platies would pose a problem, the cories i would attempt but i would have a back up plan if something were to change.

 

[OldMan1947]

Backup plans, yes. The cories could be moved to my 120 community tank but I was hoping to use them to help draw the shy cichlids into the open the way the cories are so active. I was concerned because I know how territorial cichlids can get when they are trying to breed. Thanks for the warning Zach.