seeking input on cycling options for 55g

[jeanne]

I'm setting up a 55g to be a malawi tank (still trying to decide mbuna or non-mbuna). I'm wondering if a school of tiger barbs (say, 7) is a good cycling fish. Will the cichlids likely kill the barbs once I start introducing the cichlids?
OR, I've got a school of 6 zebra danios, used to cycle another tank, that I thought about using again. Some sites say they're quick enough to avoid becoming cichlid snacks, but I'm skeptical b/c they're so small. Any input?
OR should I just use old water, rocks, plants + filter media from my other tank (which I'll do whatever fish I use to cycle with), and go straight to cichlids and simply stock slowly?
Thanks for input!

 

[Flex26]

How about doing a fishless cycle? If you already have established tanks, it shouldn't take that long. A couple weeks maybe.

 

[jeanne]

Yes, a fishless cycle would be great for the cichlids. But I'm really trying to find a home for the danios I have (they have to come out of their current tank, which has too many top water fast fish), AND I keep looking for a good place for a school of tiger barbs, which I'm really attracted to but so far haven't been able to put into a tank due to compatibility issues...

 

[TaffyFish]

Go fishless and find another home(s) for the barbs and danios? You're only putting off the inevitable.