Just keep removing the slimy layer, or get a few ottos they seems to like it eventually it will go away
you mean doesn't sink right?
and when you say large planted set up how large are you talking?
I thought it grew upwards due to lack of light...
how bright is it at the bottom of the tank?
Are they T5/8 tubes?, Age, and what do you mean by cheap 40w lights? any ferts/ect?
1. not sure
2/3. Epalzeorhynchos frenatum, rainbow shark (normal/ albino morph)
5/6/7. afaik just angels
8. just a swordtail
9. Platy
10. pleco of some description..
11/12. Platy
HTH