55 Gallon Cichlid Tank

[EVoyager31]

I am trying to do research into setting up a 55g cichlid tank but finding a lot of conflicting information and I am still unsure what to get in terms of substrate, decor (some kind of rock I imagine), and types of cichlids that can go together in a 55 gallon.

Looking for ideas on what kinds of specific cichlids someone has had experience with that are colorful and groupings that will help counteract aggression.

[Scapexghost]

Go to 3:43 for the cichlids

African cichlids like hard water and high ph so if you don't have that naturally aragonite sand and rocks like texas holey rock will be really helpful. If yoy do, then any sand and rock will be fine. Planting a cichlid tank is difficult but not impossible and well worth it. Plants like val and anubias will work best. Try to maximize line of sight blocks and hides when scaping the tank.