Congrats on the new tank, if your starting with Africans that will decide your stock list. I'm assuming they are mbuna being the most common african. When stocking aggressive fish like these some research and planning goes along way. The best way to stock most Malawi cichlids is 1m to 4-5f as this will reduce aggression towards the female fish and discourage hybridization in-between the species. With a 55g tank three species of mbuna can be chosen with a final stock of around 15-18 fish. They are hard to sex when young so purchase extras and regime when sex is determined or a hyper aggressive male is found. They also require alot of caves, cracks, and crevices. This will also help spread aggression around by enabling plenty of spots for fish to claim as home.
As far Plecs are concerned my favorite with mbuna is a bristlenose, stays small, works hard, andOwill defend himself when needed...last part might come up once of twice. Good luck they can be difficult but the end result is rewarding. Any questions ask away Ive been breeding many years
People think they cant keep plecs with mbuna and that's simu not true,they're also other cat that can b uaed with mbuna with Mbundu like Syndontis work between mbunA and synodontis. Theres alot or options when choosingtankmates
