Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've decided to convert my 75 gallon reef tank into a Malawi biotope setup. To be honest, cost is the main reason behind this change. Luckily, my local fish store is super knowledgeable about cichlids and saltwater, and they're offering me an amazing deal. I'm trading in my 200 pounds of live rock and 7 corals, along with all my other livestock, in exchange for 12 cichlids of my choice, a ton of rock, sand, and food – it's a no-brainer.

Still narrowing down my stocking options. Would love to hear some suggestions - considering the biotope aspect, what cichlids would you recommend for a 75 gallon tank?

You must've had some inspiration for the change. What made you want to switch to a Malawi biotope? Maybe sharing your ideas will help us give you better suggestions.

What's caught your eye so far, anything in particular that's swayed you towards this setup?

That red top albino peacock cichlid at my lfs really caught my eye - it's now reserved for me.

You're switching to an African cichlid setup, huh?

Yeah, I am. The setup's coming along - tank's cleaned, sand's in, water's in, and I've started adding the rocks.

Planning on adding some other species to complement my reserved red top albino peacock cichlid - still deciding though.

Honestly, I'm thinking of adding some Johaniis, labs would be great too, and if I can find one with the right attitude, an auratus. I'd also love to get a kenyi, some socolofi, and maybe a demasoni or two. Plus, I've always been curious about salousis, so maybe one of those as well.

I picked up the new additions today - 2 peacocks, 1 yellow lab, 1 female auratus, and 3 unknowns. They've been in the same tank since Paisa, and I was told they all get along pretty well, so I figured why not. The lab and one of the unknowns are about 2 1/2 inches, the rest are about 2 inches. I'll post some pics when I get a chance.