Setting up a Cichlid tank 29gal

Question
Hi, I was wondering if you can tell me how to set up a 29 gal tank for african cichlids.  I know the basics about setting up tanks, like i need a heater (like 150-200 watts), filter, etc.  But should I have sand (i like it b/c it is prettier) or gravel, is sand better?  What are the water rquirements?  I heard that they are diff from some tropical fish.  What cichlids can I have in it?  I wanted to have a variaty of bright colors.  And my last question is can they live peacefully with a tiretrack eel(are the water requirements different?)?  The eel is docile.  Thank you so much and I'm sorry if I'm not clear.

Answer
OK, the first thing to consider when setting up an African tank is the water chemistry. Lake Tanganyika typically ranges between pH 7.8-9.0. In nature, the pH levels will vary somewhat as the levels of the lakes will rise and fall through the years. For simplicity, I'd recommend that you keep it between 8.2-8.4. You must also consider GH & KH. I'd keep the GH around 14-16, and I'd keep the KH between 15-20. There are commercial varieties of each of these out there; SeaChem and Kent come to mind offhand. I'd definately recommend using a mix to increase both of these values, but there are other options. The following is a mix for a "typical" tap water sample (ie pH7.5, KH 1-3, GH 1-3). For every 5 gallons of water, add 1-tablespoon Epsom slats, 1-teaspoon baking soda, and 1-teaspoon aquarium salt (instant ocean). (I've also had success without using the epsom salts, by using a little more sea salt) Remember to keep the water clean and clear, and well oxygenated. A fast flowing filter or an air bubbler are necessary.

Next, sand substrate is definately desirable...if for no other reason than it is more natural. Many people choose a reef sand (aragonite) as it will naturally buffer the aquarium (increase KH), making chemical KH buffers unnecessary. You must also provide plenty of caves, and a few open areas. Its good to pile rocks in the corners...use the vertical space.
I enclosed this link shows a good setup.
http://www.thetropicaltank.co.uk/Tanks/mytank4.htm

I don't think I'd recommend the tiretrack eel, they prefer a little bit softer water that is a little less alkaline. You can try it, but it won't be an ideal situation for the eel. There is an eel that is native to Lake Tanganyika (Mastacemblus elipsifer), if you can get your hands on one, that would be ideal.

Hope this helps, if you need clarification on any of this, feel free to ask a follow-up.
Good luck