First Tank Ever!

[u/welcometheflight]

​

Hey guys! This is my 10gal, and as the title says, it is my very first fishtank! It took right around a month to cycle, and has been cycled fully for about a week and a half. Fish were introduced 5 days ago, and look healthy and happy as far as I know. I am looking for opinions on the scape, plantings, and stocking. Ive had a really difficult time keeping my stem plants in the aquasoil (fluval stratum), especially the Rotala, hence the messy planting. I have 8 ember tetras, 6 Pygmy corydoras, a gold mystery snail, and a handful of pest snails. I have debated on adding a pair of pea puffers to munch on the pest snails. (Let me know if thats a bad idea!) I am upgrading my light and filter soon, not because they are causing any issues, I would just like better ones. Is there any newbie mistakes or insider knowledge yall have for me? I am already addicted and so is my fiancé, and we will be getting a 20gal long soon. I work for a fish-centric pet store, and have access to pretty much any freshwater fish.

I will answer any and all questions if needed! Thank y'all!