Stocking Ideas Needed! 45 (46?) Gallon Bow-Front

[Channti]

So, I finally convinced my parents to allow me to get a larger tank; the result? A 45 (possibly 46) gallon bowfront tank that I'm picking up tomorrow. The price was right, and the pictures look good, but I won't have it in my possession to do dimensions until tomorrow. I'd assume the bowfronts are all a standard size though...

Anyway,
Now I'm completely and totally overwhelmed with what to put in it.
I'm open to any ideas. As long as they're fresh-water. (A salt water tank would be nice, but too much work for my parents when I'm at school).

It's so exciting!

I'm not entirely sure what kind of lighting comes with the tank, but I'd really like to try my hand at a planted tank. I've been looking at plants, but again, am overwhelmed. I'd assume the tank would be florescent lighting, but I'd like to avoid the whole CO2 situation. What kind of plants would you suggest for beginners (beyond the typical Java Moss/Fern, Anubias, etc).

Thanks!

 

[FWFishLover]

Well Are You Look For Large Fish Or Small Fish?

 

[Channti]

I'm open to anything to be honest. Just want something that will be interesting. Cichlids are a favourite of my family (I think it's the mbuna ones my mom keeps looking at), but I've also entertained the idea of a community.

 

[FWFishLover]

I'm open to anything to be honest. Just want something that will be interesting. Cichlids are a favourite of my family (I think it's the mbuna ones my mom keeps looking at), but I've also entertained the idea of a community.

Well For A 46g I'd Definitely Say African Cichlids Maybe Some Electric Yellows (Yellow Labs)
and maybe a single synodontis euruptus (featherfin catfish) to go with them

If You Want A Community I'd Look Into Like Livebearers And Tetras Maybe Some Dwarf Gouramis
Also some Cories For Clean-up