I cant make any suggestions (even though im IN LOVE with bricardi), my personal 55 gallon has 2 mbuna (1 albino), one large livingstonii, two venustus and 2 jewels *aggressive breeding machines* and one common pl*co the same side of the medium sized cichlids in the tank. The Ph is kep really alkaline (thanks to my well fed faucet water), substrate is a mix half and half white gravel/crushed coral. I used flat slabs of natural rock from a riverbed nearby to make the caves and for prettiness i use two large fake plants. 60 gallon topfin filter, submersible heater and a 20 gallon powerhead for a bit of current. So far i havent had any major problems with them save with the jewels. They go into breeding mode like once a week and cause trouble in the tank. Ill be moving them soon. The key (in my opinion) is to make sure you stick to one lake or region for your cichlids. For example, dont mix mbuna (african) with an oscar (asian). Two different water compatibilities and needs. Knowledge is most definatly key as well. Do your research. If you make an impulsive buy it may shape the way your tank grows with occupants for the duration.
I hope ive been of some help. Feel free to email me if you have any questions!
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