Working on my intial list for community tank.

I want a Discus community tank, but I think they are too advanced for me so I plan on going basic community. Here are some of the fish I'm thinking about for a 40gallon planted.

10 Neons or Cardinal Tetras.
4 Gourami's maybe dwarf.
A skunk, zebra or other loach or two
Redtail shark or Flying Fox.
Some Cory's undecided on type yet 3 to 4.
A Bamboo shrimp or two.
Some Red Cherry or Bumble Bee Shrimp

Still looking for other potential tank mates. I love Clown Loaches, but they get too big. I l could really use some top /surface feeders.

What's a good top feeder or top dwelling fish for planted?

I really want shrimp and loaches. What loach would be a good choice?

Also, are there eels like the tiretrack or elephant that only grow to 6" or less?