12-gallon long setup. Stocking question

[b Lurkn]

I'm going to be building a custom shelf above my computer desk where I can keep this tank. It's going to be an all in one clean and rimless tank, it will measure at about 3 feet long and be about 9 inches tall and deep.
I'll post pics if you guys are interested in what I'm doing once I start.
Anyways initially I was going to do shellies but is ce I already have a tang community in my living room I figure some dwarf cichlids would really make this tank pop and would add a little variety to my room.
My question is could I get away with a Apistogramma pair or a electric blue ram pair with this setup. Maybe even some cardinal tetras to really make it pop.
Please help out a dwarf cichlid noob here

Read more: http://www.apistogramma.com/forum/i...n-long-stocking-question.13176/#ixzz26wzKlWqW

 

[Mike Wise]

Yes, if properly decorated, I see no problem with a dwarf cichlid pair + cardinals. Just don't expect many fry. Cardinals are excellent fry predators.

 

[b Lurkn]

That fine with me I don't want fry anyways.
Just want to keep it simple. So how many cardinals can't get away with?
An chance. Could throw a beta in the tank or would the cichlids eventually kill it?

 

[Mike Wise]

6-8 Cardinal should work if your tank maintenance is good. I wouldn't recommend a Betta; too similar in shape to an apisto.