Cichlid Info

Okay Guys I am getting pretty serious about starting my Cichlid tank. I got a 50 gallon tank from a friend, and I will be moving my current collection of fish into this, and will have my 75gallon open for Cichlids. I am stumped tho, as what I shoud get?? I have been looking at the African, and south American. I realy like aspects of both kinds, but cannot decide which to get?? What are the best?? Which ones do best together?? Is there anything special I need for cichlids?? I am looking to have a completely natural looking tank. Plants, rocks, driftwood ect.. I am not looking for any crazy stuff, like treasure chests and such. I want it to look completely natural. I have the plants, the driftwood, and the stone, now I just need the fish!! Please help me, if any of this makes any sense!!:D

Most South American cichlids must be the only species, or even the only fish in the tank. Most Africans, especially Malawi cichlids, are fish who enjoy a large school, with many species. Tanganyikan cichlids can be a little feisty between species sometimes.

South American species tend to be larger, whereas you will find a huge variety of Africans that stay less than 6 inches.

South American cichlids need more water maintenence. Softer water, lower pH. Africans need harder water and aren't usually as sensitive.

I suggest you take a look at the cichlids on liveaquaria.com. http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/categ.cfm?pcatid=830 see if there's anything you'd really like to have. Then you can work the rest of the fish around that species.

Thanks!! I have been having a hard time with finding a site that had all the different kinds, and this site was great! Definitely seem to be leaning towards the African Cichlids. Such amazing looking fish! And of course their temperment is a plus!:D

Aquariumadvice.com has a good crowd of cichlid lovers too if you want to poke around or ask them questions