New 70 gallon tank

[Nats-fishies]

Hello, I am starting up a new 70 gallon freshwater tank. I was hoping to get some suggestions of what type of fish I can keep together in here? We are looking for some larger fish for this space that are colorful. Also maybe a shark as well.

Also maybe some advise on semi-aggressive fish? Can different types be kept together?

Thanks

 

[FishieKeeper429]

I'd suggest a cichlid community. My dream community is as follows:
2- black severums
1- green severums
2- gold geophagus
1- flash pleco

 

[Nats-fishies]

What economical substrate is recommended? I've never used sand so how is the cleaned, but seems more economical than say 40lbs of rocks.

 

[FishieKeeper429]

What economical substrate is recommended? I've never used sand so how is the cleaned, but seems more economical than say 40lbs of rocks.

I'd just use gravel and driftwood.