setting up a 12 gallon

[yoimb0b]

so i was given this 12 gallon flat back hex acrylic aquarium from a neighbor who stopped using it. I want to try some plants in it because its so small i figured a few neon or cardinal tetras and a few plants would be something cool to look at as its on my desk. What substrate, plants, lighting should i start off with? Right now i have the basic flourescent lighting it has, and thats all.

also, what fish would be good to keep in such a small aquarium?

 

[WyldFya]

Check this sticky first. This will tell you all you need to know, other than other fish to keep. I'd stick to maybe 12 neon/cardinals and 3-5 otos. No more.