New/ used 125 gal tank

[kfcdowling]

Ok here we go i just got a 125 gal tank .just the tank .i want to go with cichlids. Lots of them, what kind of filters or filter should i go with, ????? That one thing i need to start with .thanks for any help.

 

[cmbtengnr43]

Id go with a canister filter like an fx5 is a very good filter do you want sand or gravel substrate?

 

[Jmunroe]

I have a FX5 and aquaclear 110 on my 125 with 2 oscars and green phantom pleco. I use the foam in the FX5 that comes with it around the sides and the middle 3 trays I filled with bio max. In the aq110 I use the foam block in the bottom floss In the middle and bio max on the top. Seems to work good.

 

[kfcdowling]

ok thanks. i just order one fx5.im thinking about going with black sand on this tank. i got 2 55 gals and 29 gal. so going to 125 gal is a big jump so and help i get thank you

 

[cmbtengnr43]

Make sure you rinse the sand really well poor some in a 5 gallon bucket about 1/4 full then shove hose in and let it run until water is clear

 

[kfcdowling]

thanks all for the help

 

[ohiomalawi]

Sand

I use pool filter sand (AquaQuartz #20) --- get it from pool supply - it's light colored, cheap, and already clean. If the tank is already drilled, it makes the canister choice a little easier. If mine were drilled, I would've done the fx5 myself, but instead went with two AquaClear 70 HOB's and a powerhead/microsponge system. Does the trick for my 72 gallon.

 

[Cichlid-dude]

I use pool filter sand (AquaQuartz #20) --- get it from pool supply - it's light colored, cheap, and already clean. If the tank is already drilled, it makes the canister choice a little easier. If mine were drilled, I would've done the fx5 myself, but instead went with two AquaClear 70 HOB's and a powerhead/microsponge system. Does the trick for my 72 gallon.

The tank doesnt need to be drilled at all to use an fx5.

 

[kfcdowling]

i went with aquatop 400 cannister filter and emperor 400 and med light rock .people said sand will get in the pumps and ruin them.

 

[kfcdowling]

the aqatop has a spray bar about 3 feet long so i just ran the lines up the back of the tank and over the top.