Read my article in aquarium world...lol.
I have both.
Tank bigger is better ...but u have to be able to manage it.
Always over filter.
Africans-biotype.river.lake.mix
Americans-central or south are river
Africans if u want to mix colours u generally don't breed
Americans are less conspecific aggressive but do get bigger
there are lots of both types available
just be aware u can't mix and match but some ppl do get away with it
some ppl plan the tank for the fish...others plan the fish for the tank.
Gravel and rock generally lake fish. gravel wood and plants generally river fish.
U can mix discus angels kribs to good effect for example but these fish will get up to 15-18 cm so u need a taller tank.
Chocs nics geos are a good mix for s a fish type tank and all get on well and will generally be ok in 4x2 tank but would recommend 6x2.
The choice is yours young one may you enjoy the journey as much as the destination .....and yeah normally a war does break out...pleased it hasn't cause some of those s a gas are crazzzzzzy..... :digH: