New 55 Gallon

[Wolfpak1106]

Hello Everyone,

Yesterday I bought a 55 gallon fresh water tank with a Emperor 280, heater, 2 aerators, and a bunch of other supplies. Right now I'm in the process of letting the tank cycle. It has the original gravel (About 4+ Years old) but just hosed down, etc and it kinda smells. I am looking forward to stock the tank with some large beautiful fish such Angelfish and Dicus, etc. What else can I put in here with 2 angelfish and 3 or 4 discus? Is that already overstocked or no? I am probably going to go out and buy some live plants such as Java Moss and Hornwort. Can I go ahead and add some red cherry shrimp right away or do I have to wait for it to cycle..? I will take any other ideas on fish that are very colorful and any other things you have to say.

Thanks

 

[blue2fyre]

Congrats on the new tank!
you say thje tank is cycling, but what method are you using? I think angel fish would look nice. Discus can be difficult due to their need for perfect water conditions. but it can be done. I wouldn't keep angels and discus if it was me. I'm a huge advocate for african mbuna cichlids. They are very colorful and active and would do great in a tank that size. There is a link in my signature to my own mbuna tank.
As far as the shrimp, they are very sensitive to ammonia and nitrite, more so taht a lot of fish. Don't add them to your tank until it is totally cycled. Any plants can be added right away though. Hornwort is a great nutrient sponge and grows quickly.

 

[Wolfpak1106]

Im using the fishless cycle. I also bought some beneficial bacteria stuff. Will that replace it so I dont need ammonia. If not what should I use to cycle the tank.