Help with 55 gal stocking?

[Footballref50]

Hey yall! I'm brand new to this site and I need a lil feedback on the stocking of my 55 gal. I'm torn between African Cichlids and an Angelfish amazonian tank. Any thoughts or suggestions? The tank currently has gravel substrate with fake planting. All replies will be most welcome thank you!

The Ref

 

[Cichlaholics Anonymous]

I'd go with Africans, especially a Tanganyikan community. There are numerous options, which species do you like?

 

[Sandman334]

^^ agreed.

 

[Footballref50]

Im quite unsure because im not versed in African info. I like Aulonacaras and Lelupis but i dont know what to keep. Also what would i need to do to accomodate Africans?

 

[haynchinook334]

sand substrate, holy rocks, some crushed coral, a good filter, a heater, a coke and a smile....but if your tap water ph is high, then there is no need for crushed coral.

 

[Footballref50]

I have very hard wate already i condition my water to make it softer. Would i require i sand/argonite substrate? Amd what would i be able to keep in a 55?

 

[HPIZZLE]

you should go with the amazonian. africans are pretty and all but amazonians are FERKING AWESOME!!!

 

[haynchinook334]

I have very hard wate already i condition my water to make it softer. Would i require i sand/argonite substrate? Amd what would i be able to keep in a 55?

i always liked sand.

 

[Cichlaholics Anonymous]

I have very hard wate already i condition my water to make it softer. Would i require i sand/argonite substrate? Amd what would i be able to keep in a 55?

I would keep that substrate regardless if you need it for buffering. I'd go with some shelldwellers, they are the most fascinating Tanganyikans IMO, perhaps some Paracyprichromis as well