New 55 galon

[m0rl0ck]

We are going to get it tomorrow :) Wanted some opinions on the setup we have planned:

Africian cichlid tank
Substrate:
Tahitan moon sand and onyx for looks and buffering, respectively.

Filtration:
2 aquaclear 200's

Stocking:
Aulonocara baenschi
Otopharynx lithobates
Aulonocara steveni
Protomelas taeniolatus
about 4 of each of the above.

Heater:
tetra submersible 200 wattt.


So what do you all think of the above setup?

Also I have some questions:
Will the fish stir up the sand enough to have it be sucked up in the filter intakes? Should we cover the intakes with sponges?

What kind of rocks and how many for the decor?

Also whats the fastest way to cycle the tank for its new occupants?

Thanks

[parrotfish100]

Well, as for the sand question... I don't think that they would kick it up much. Africans LOVE to dig, so you will find the sand re-arranged almost every day, and tons of holes underneath your rock (I love watching those little guys dig! :laugh: ). They could theoretically build it up so much in the back that the filter hits it, but they normally don't go that far.

[valerie]

Are you planning on getting male and females of each aulonocara species? It would be better if you stuck with just one species as they will crossbreed. The female peacocks all look the same and once added to your tank you won't be able to tell the difference and neither will the males.

Are you planning on getting 1m/3 females for the other species too? Planning on breeding?

[mtdewlover]

I have a 55 gallon cichlid tank. ;) I cycled mine using ammonia and it cycled pretty fast. I forget the formula for the cycle process-but I'm sure you could easily look it up. Just an idea-go to your local creek bed and gather rocks, then boil them and stick them in your tank. They make excellent hiding spots when you stack them etc. I wouldn't cover the intakes with sponges.