Getting started

[rora]

I have recently set up a 500L tank on the basis of keeping Malawi's,as a beginner i would appreciate any helpful info on breeds and stock levels thanks :D

[SGypsyMermaid]

welcome, rora--a good start would be to read these forums. then try to ask more specific questions.

[jonah]

First decide what fish you want to keep through research. Avoid getting species that look too similar to avoid conflict and lessen the chance of hybrids. The pH for malawi should be around 8.2 and fairly hard, my gh/kh measures at about 15. Your tank should be large enough to hold any species I can think of, so you're starting out well with a 500l (unless my conversion is wrong, that's over 150 US gallons).

I'd also recommend over filtering the water. The fish like water movement and they're kind of messy so I filter my water about 10x an hour. Most malawi species will do well on spirulina flakes and veggies (romaine lettuce,zuchinni) blanched or frozen then clipped to the side or a rock. Some species, like haps, will need more protein so you'll need to rotate feedings with a good cichlid flake occasionally.

You can use sand or gravel for the substrate and use piles of rocks for decorations. It'll give them places to hide from each other and will make them more secure. I use Texas Holey Rock in my main tank, but any limestone or inert rock will be fine as long as it's washed/rinsed before going in the tank.

When you have specific questions about species this is a good sight to go to. I've been through all 3 versions and the people here are extremely helpful and friendly without ever making new cichlid keepers feel dumb for asking questions.

Cheers :D :D :D ,