Christmas List

[pmsmith2032]

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[TD="class: kmessage-right"]I am trying to set-up a new 55 gallon tank for African Cichlids (first time) and need some advice on what to put on my Christmas list. Here is what I already have:

- Standard 55 gallon tank
- Store bought wood stand (I believe it is made out of press board)
- Plastic flourscent strip light (it has two bulbs if I remember correctly......end to end) - Like this http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/p ... catid=3803
- Two glass canopies (one cracked)
- Marineland Stealth Pro Heater - I believe it has been recalled
- Aqua Tech 30-60 filter (330 gph)
- Tons of rocks
All items were bought used on craigslist a couple of years ago.

Here are some items I think I might need:

- More filtration - Hagen AquaClear Power Filter - Probably a 70 (300 gph) but 110 (500 gph) if needed.
- New heater
- Probably some kind of upgrade/modification to lighting and cover
- Some sort of gravel cleaner/water changer
- Some sort of chemical kit to balance water chemistry
- Food and other additives

I am trying to keep costs low and keep maintenance down as much as possible. Right now I am thinking it will be a Pseudotropheus Saulosi (I like the blue/yellow contrast) but I am open to suggestions. Thanks in advance!


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[bbortko]

I would definitely add the ac110. Where in Illinois are you located? If you have Chicago/lake Michigan water I wouldn't use any additives other than prime, also I have some young saulosi I need to relocate.

 

[pmsmith2032]

Thanks bbortko. We live in far west burbs so no Lake water. You don't think a ac70 with the Aqua Tech 30-60 filter will be enough. I am definitely interested in the saulosi but haven't even started setting up and cycling the tank. Probably won't get to it until after Christmas.

 

[Blazin]

Ff you're looking for a heater truaqua .com has some on sale for a cheap price.

For food it seems like most members recommend NLS (New Life Spectrum), but you may want to browse the african cichlid section to see what they tend to go with.

Every fish keeper should also have some type of test kit. I (and it seems most people) use API Freshwater Master Test Kit. It goes for like $16 online and you get PH, High PH, Nitrate, Nitrite, and Ammonia tests.

As stated above Seachem Prime should be the only additive, unless african cichlids need something extra (don't have any experience with african cichlids).

For the cracked lid if your looking to save some money, maybe it can be repaired. You can always post on the DIY section of this forum for help.

Hopefully this was helpful!