CichlidFish.com - Fish That Think.

I was wondering if anyone one could help me decide what I need to get for a 55g that I’m going to be setting up in about a month for 7 assorted fish (bumble bee cichlid, Chinese algae eater, etc) that I currently have in a 10g. so far here is what I’m looking to get:

1. Magnum 350 Pro System
2. Rena Air Pumps 300 or 400
3. Perfect-A-Flo Undergravel Filters
4. Rena Cal Top Light Excel Heaters

I need help with choosing a light and if you think that there is anything else I should get, I would love to hear you opinion what to get or what not to get… thx  I should also mention that I am looking to get a 100+ tank later and would rather not have to upgrade if not needed.

A lot of the equipment issues are a matter of personal preference, but a few thoughts:

I'd suggest not using an undergravel filter for a cichlid tank -- they dig too much, and produce too much waste.  The Magnum is a good filter; I'd suggest supplementing with something like an Aquaclear 110 or Penguin 350 for the 55; for the 110 gallon make it the Aquaclear 110 or Emperor 400 along with the Magnum.  There are many other good options, but those have worked well for me.

The magnum was "one" of the filters on my 200+ gallon tank. I really liked it but from what I remember might not be good for a 55gallon tank unless you position it right, turbulence-wise. And I've heard the Aquaclears are good also.

so is it possible to use the undergravel filter as the first stage of filltering then to a canister filter or some other fiilter?? thx for your replies

todd

I'd save the undergravel filter for a tank that won't contain cichlids.