First Time Cichlid set up

[just4kickx23]

Well I posted a topic a few days ago about mixing cichlids in with my angels in a 45g high and after getting a few responses I think I'm leaning towards giving away all my tetras to my neighbor and giving away my 4 angels to another buddy of mine. I would like to set up an african cichlid tank here are my questions ( I've kept freshwater fish for nearyly my whole like 23 yrs or so, im just now researching cichlids) 1) Is a 45 high a descent size for my first tank set-up and if so any stocking suggestions (amount or species) 2) Ph levels? what would be the proper levels, I'll prob figure it out myself after a lil more research. 3) Substrate - right now i have just regular gravel , can i keep this or is it better if i get the specific cichlid stuff 4) decor - now i have a tetra tank its many plants not much rocks, how many caves are normally suggested? 5) I also have 2 plecos hiding somewhere in my tank now , will they be able to make the conversion over cause there probably one of my favorite species. Thank you guys !!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[semper fi]

i would say to read the cichlid addict's pinned topic about setups. should answer all of your questions.

ph depends on the species and the lake.