New Cichlid Tank

[greatfish123]

A friend of mine is interested in setting up a cichlid tank and i was thinking about helping me. The one thing is he has a tight budget. So, he was thinking about using silica sand for the substrate from a local hardware store. Is that allright? Also, he was wondering where he could purchase or make the cave like set up that his cichlids need. He was also going to use a traditional power filter with a biowheel for his tank, but i suggested for him to use a external cannister with a biowheel, since cichlids are messy eaters. Am I correct to say this???

BTW, his tank is a 55gallon tank for African Cichlids preferring a hard and alkaline environment.

 

[fishwatcher]

The sand should be just fine. The filters are a matter of preference for the most part, I think, and alot of people prefer external just bc they leave more room inside the tank for the fish.
I know people use pieces of slate and aquarium silicone to make caves, but otherwise you could just buy them.

 

[dthoffsett]

He can use whatever filter(s) he likes as long as the entire tank is filters 6 or more times per hour (so he needs a rating of 350gph or more). As far as caves, just use rocks, you can buy rocks from a home & garden or landscaping store, or even find them. Check out the links for ideas on set-ups and how to choose rocks.

http/www.fishforums.net/Members-African-...ks-t169788.html
http/www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/rock_metals.php

 

[greatfish123]

thanks for your help and suggestions. i'll convey this info to him.