Help with cichlids

[photobug]

I'm converting my 65 gallon tank to cichlids and was advised to add a bunch at once, but I'm holding off till I get the buffer and Malawi salt in. It used to be freshwater, but it's cycled now and I'm ready for the switch. Thing is, I was told to buy them all at the same time so they don't establish territories, but isn't that gonna cause an ammonia spike?

[stacker]

i think you're good on the filter front, the one you got and the new one should handle it, over filtering is always a plus

[photobug]

I'm thinking of getting that second filter, but I'm hesitant - was recommended a canister, don't wanna waste resources though, and our facility's electric bill is already through the roof. Anyway, here's my tank setup:

http/s1056.photobucket.com/albums/t367/panosNoFlex/?action=view&current=4d7f42b1.jpg

It's looking a bit cloudy atm, just rearranged some decor and added rocks.

[floriks]

Two Aquaclear 70s aren't gonna cut it for filtration in a 65-gallon cichlid tank. Those fish need top-notch filtration, usually achieved with two canisters. Hang-on-backs just don't filter enough of the water. If you're dead set on using Aquaclears, you might get away with two 110s, but you'll need to be super on top of tank maintenance. Still, canisters would be your best bet.

[photobug]

can someone tell me how to post the pic so its not just a link, like make it appear on the page instead

[photobug]

Also, I've got a 23" airstone - does that make a difference in this setup.

[stacker]

my apologies, i thought those filters were external, not hang on backs. personally, i've never been a fan of HOBs.

[photobug]

Honestly, I'm just keeping it simple with HOB for now, it's easy to maintain, but once I move into my new place in a few months, I'm planning to upgrade to a canister, that's the plan anyway.

[photobug]

when i upgrade to a canister filter, i'm thinking of getting this one - marineland magnum 350 canister filter. does anyone know how to set it up properly and also, will it increase my electric bill significantly?

[finnleyes]

I'm converting my 65 gallon tank to cichlids and was advised to add a bunch at once, but I'm holding off till I get the buffer and Malawi salt in. It used to be freshwater, but it's cycled now and I'm ready for the switch. Thing is, I was told to buy them all at the same time so they don't establish territories, but isn't that gonna cause an ammonia spike?

I haven't really noticed a huge spike in my electric bill since getting the Marineland Magnum 350. One thing to watch out for when setting it up is the top - be super careful not to bend the tubing on the inside where the water flows. I learned the hard way when I didn't check on my filter for a week and it basically stopped filtering the water, just circulating it.

I just got my replacement tubing in the mail, but I would recommend the Magnum 350. If you've got the funds, it's worth considering the upgrade model with the bio wheel system - it's like having double filtration. I would've gone for it myself, but I won all my gear for my cichlids. I'm setting up my new filter today, and I'll be looking for another one soon. I've got one HOB and one canister, and I've heard good things about the API models, but for your tank size, you'd need the main base for $99 and the second piece for $75. The Magnum 350 Pro is a great option, and it's only $106 right now.