General African Cichlid Discussion • Are these gh/kh numbers ok?

[Sookielee]

We are wanting to do african cichlids in our 75 gallon tank. I just received the gh/kh test kit today and tested the tap water. GH = 24, KH = 13. according to the water dept the PH = 7.4

Are these numbers in line with keeping african cichlids? Are there species I should avoid or gravitate to? Thanks a million for helping me sort all this out.

[GTZ]

Looks good. You may want to pick up a full liquid test kit as well (if you haven't already) if you plan on doing a fishless cycle (which I recommend). Also, to confirm your water company's pH level.

[Sookielee]

We actually purchased the API Master kit when we bought the 75 gallon tank and got a big surprise that the GH/KH wasn't included. We ended up having to order that kit online as no lfs here in Indy carried the thing, guess they want to keep those sales numbers up on the fish. Once we get the 3d background completed and cured for a week we will get the tank set up and do a full cycle, plus this will put us closer to spring and warmer temperatures to order our fish. We do not want to rush this, cichlids are not a cheap fish and losing them due to impatience is not an option in my book. I am just happy that my numbers didn't get a "holy cow" or something similar.

[Chloe Bell]

Are you building your own 3D background?

[Sookielee]

Yes we are. We have gotten everything cut out and siliconed together. Right now we are trying to get everything shaped so it doesn't look like a bunch of stacked foam boards.