new tank set up

[Ben]

hi, im new to cichlids. i was wanting to set up a tanganikian tank, of dimensions 30"*15"*12", to house Altolamprologus calvus, neolamprologus brichardi , and julidochromis regani . i was wanting to se set it p with caves along the back, with villisnernia and some java moss and a course sand substrate. how many fish could this hold? would it be better to focus on one type of fish and get a shoal?if so which one and how many. if this is not possible what about if i pushed the boat out and got a 4' tank. how many of these fish could i house in that? would it be better to have shoals of 2 types rather than all three, or would it be better jsut to have a pair of each? cheers. sorry for the long windedness. ben

[Deb2]

Brichardi aren't the best for a small comunity. When they spawn they will take over the tank. They do form an interesting colony where the older juvies will protect the younger.
Calvus are cool fish and will be fine.
I have never kept regani but I think they will be fine.
Most Tanganyikans aren't shoaling fish. Except Cyprichromis leptosoma and Paracyprichromis and your tank is too small. They are open water swimmers and a tank of 50 gallons or more is best.
A colony of shellies would work with the calvus, I'm not sure about the regani though.