How many cichlids in a 55 gal?

[Maridia]

Hello everyone. I recently acquired a 55 gal tank. I already have all my filtration gear, lights, heater, rocks for hiding places, etc. How many cichlids can I fit in this tank? I don't want any giant monster cichlids, like a jack Dempsey. I would prefer a large and colorful variety. Any suggestions? How many can I squeeze in there? I'm very adamant on doing weekly water changes, but don't want to do more than that due to overstocking. My filtration would consist of: 306 fluval canister, aquaclear 70 hob, and 2 ati hydro iv sponge filters. Would this be sufficient filtration for a fully stocked cichlid tank?

 

[jhawk__]

Well it depends on what kind of cichlids you want! There's so many different types from different regions and lakes! I'd suggest mbuna for a start, they are from lake Malawi.

 

[Maridia]

Well it depends on what kind of cichlids you want! There's so many different types from different regions and lakes! I'd suggest mbuna for a start, they are from lake Malawi.

I've seen some pictures of very beautiful Mbuna's. How many could fit in a 55 gal with the previously mentioned filtration?

 

[jhawk__]

I've seen some pictures of very beautiful Mbuna's. How many could fit in a 55 gal with the previously mentioned filtration?

I'd say probably 15 is a good number, on mbuna that are 6in or less.