Newbie W/ 55g Tank, Need Opinions

[EdgeWise]

I'm starting fresh with a new tank, a few years ago I had a 10G with swordtails, guppies, etc.. but now I want something more exotic, i was thinking Discus or Misc Cichlid w/ a Pelco and maybe others.. my questions are:

1, Which species do well together, and which would you recommend for a newbie?

2, Are there any other fish that would go well with the above?

3, I was thinking about getting colored rocks for the bed, but I think i'd rather go with sand (or gravel?) with a few live plants... for a more natural enviroment for the fish any opinions on that?

 

[osteoporoosi]

Discus are usually recommended for highly experienced fishkeepers, and 55 gallons is rather small for them anyway.

I suggest Apistogramma cacatuoides, a beautiful and easy fish. Relatively small and peaceful fish, such as glowlight,- cardinal,-x-ray tetras, corydoras are suitable tankmates. If you are interested in plecos, bushynose and small peckoltia-species would work nicely.

Sand is the ultimate substrate for any bottom feeders and plants.