27 hex aquascape help?

[DSeucrocher]

I just purchased a used 27 gal hex tank with all the filtration, heater, lights and pumps for cheap off craigslist. Now that I have it I have no idea how to set it up??? I was thinking either a wannabie saltwater with Malawi Cichlids, pool filter sand and some plants OR an aquascaped small tetras with shrimps and sand as well. This is a weird tank to set up since it's taller than wide. I don't want to setup and have to redo it a few months down the road. I have some pretty coral I was thinking about using with those bright yellow and blue Malawi Cichlids but I fear high tank maintenance b/c of cleaners will get picked on? What do I do for a low maitenance hex tank? Maybe shrimp and angel fish with some tall plants? Your advice is greatly appreciated, oh I'm in Chicago were the ph is perfectly neutral, and I have already 2 auqascaped species tanks.

What are some good low light tall plants? Do I need CO2 too?

[GirlieGirl8521]

Skip the Malawians.

Go with low light plants like Java fern, Anacharis, Anubias, Crypts, and maybe Wisteria (depending on how much light you have). You won't need CO2.

You can't have Angelfish and Shrimp.....the shrimp will be dinner. You could have a single Angel and a school of small, but not small enough to eat, tetras, rasboras or pencilfish. Some cories would work for the bottom.

Stocking will be limited in a hex tank though, because the height of the tank isn't as important as the length.

[DSeucrocher]

And for soil can I use reg organic soil or does it have to be florite or peat? How long do I have to cyle it w/o fish? And tanx...

[Plecosterone]

You can use pool filter sand. I use play sand with good results.