Stocking a 10gal Paludarium(tropical)

[codestar]

Hello,

I've recently started building my own paludarium in a 10 gallon fish tank. Now I'm looking into what to stock it with.

There will probably be about 5 gallons of swimming space, maybe a gallon below in a "false bottom," and about a 2 gallon sump.

Plants, any of your favorites and why? Which ones are most beneficial.
I would like to "cycle" my tank before I get some fish, will the plants I buy at petsmart or some other local shop have some 'beneficial bacteria' with it? I've never even looked at plants, I have no idea if they do or not. I assume they would if they have dirt, but do they even come in dirt?

Animals, I plan on keeping a few tetras, but I want to know if 2-3 "Jumbo Neon tetras" (Petsmart) Will school with 2-3 "Glowlight tetras" (Petsmart)?They're about the same size, so I assume they would, but, again, have no clue.

Also, what amphibian would be a good tank mate for these fish? I looked into ADF's, but I found that they were aquatic. I want something that appreciates the land just as much, if not more, than the water. However, I don't want it to eat or poison my poor little fish :P

Thanks in advance,
Cody

[1.0gecko]

The tetras probably won't school, I would get 6 of one species. I have three cardinal tetras and they barely school. Aquatic plants don't carry enough nitrifying bacteria nor are they planted in soil, usually they are planted in the substrate. Since the aquarium part will most likely be low light I recommend java fern, java moss, anubias, and hairgrass after a bit. Hope this helps

[shawnip1]

The tetras will school(3 is not a school) if you want tight schooling go Rummy face tetra . Avoid platys and mollies as well they clean out your plants.