Filtration and Stocking question for 55 gallon?

Question

Hi everyone, I finally got a 55 gallon tank that is being set up. For stocking ideas, I was considering the following that hopefully someone will help on. I already have one firemouth, so in addition to him, I was thinking:

1 JD, 1 Convict, maybe some swordtails or something for dither

or

1 Blood Parrot (I know it's a hybrid, I won't buy the dyed version, I just feel bad for these guys and I want at least one to have a chance at someone who will take care of him), 1 of the smaller, less aggressive cichlids (angel, curviceps, I'll take other suggestions too) and either tetras or swordtails

or

open to suggestions.

Also, what kind of filtration would I need? I have a 150 gph Aquaclear that is already seeded with bacteria on my 29 gallon which I will throw on there as a secondary filter. I think I'll also rig up a small sponge filter with an air pump I have. What else should I add? Thanks everyone!

Answer 1

This first option could work, but instead of the Swordtails, I'd recommend something faster like a school of 15(ish) Danios, Hatchets, or Rainbows.  You shouldn't have any problems with plenty of wood, rocks, and fake plants (they'll shred live ones).

This would be a bit sketchier, as Blood Parrots are very slow moving, and would have trouble defending themselves against something like Angels, which can be fairly aggressive for a "peaceful" Cichlid.  The Curviceps would be a better choice, though an Acara would work well too.  Again, I would opt away from Swordtails-- a school of 10-15 larger Tetras will have a much better shot.

Move the Aquaclear to the 55 gallon tank when you get fish, and also consider something like an Aquaclear 50, or even a canister like a Fluval 204 or 205 (just a newer model of the 204).  Feel free to contact me with any questions.