I'm looking to get a 20 gallon aquarium for a betta and about 10 panda cories, along with a natural themed aquascape and beginner friendly plants.

IF POSSIBLE, my ultimate goal is to have a self sustaining ecosystem with minimal maintenance. I recently watched part of a video where a guy had done this. It seemed like a lot of work to begin with but eventually everything leveled out.

Here's what I'm wanting to ask from you folks: -a list of hardy, beginner friendly plants that will fill out the aquarium without overtaking it -best filtration options (not the hideous hang on back type system) -will I have a big enough tank for a cleaner crew like shrimp and snails, and if so, what kind/how many? -anything else I need to consider?

I have "old" fishkeeping experience, but it's been 15 years so I'm wanting to start fresh