New tank is here, and several questions

[CichlidDan]

I finally got the new custom tank for my cichla, 72"x30"x18". I now have to decide what type of substrate to use. I know I am gonna paint 2 sides and the bottom black, so I wanna do black substrate, I love the look it gives the tank and also the colour it brings out in the fish. My question is whether I should go with gravel or sand, I am not gonna use much either way because of the shallowness of the tank, and I am leaning towards gravel because I can see the sand getting kicked around and constantly being cleaned out of the canister. Have any of you guys used 3m colourquartz? and if so what are its characteristics compared to sand. Also, what size do you guys think I am gonna have to take the monocs outta here, I am hoping I will at least get a couple years because I can only get another tank when I move out....

 

[big_tank_boy]

sweet tank dog can u get us the stocking list man?

 

[CichlidDan]

hahaha funny thing, 8 cichla monoculus will be going in, still trying to think of some other fish to go with them though, my parents want something "pretty" they really dont feel cichla are worth it lol.

 

[CichlidDan]

I have been thinking lately, the Canadian Broadcast Council (CBC) should really stand for Consumed By Cichla, to bad they already took it.

 

[silverdragon]

I'd go with black gravel, for the same reason you posted man.. Your cichla will kick it up and it may clog your filters..
I use 3mm black gravel cause I didn't want sand to clog up the sump.
The tank looks sweet by the way. Can't wait to see the bass in it.
You should pop an aro in there with them.

 

[gangster]

Id personally keep it bare bottom. Since your in canada get an asian aro....chili red. That will add some more color.