overstocking

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I don't know if this is outside of your expertise or not but I just got a 10 gallon tank and I'm going to put 5 Kuhli Loaches and 8 Tiger Barbs in it, would that be overstocking or should I get only 6 Tiger Barbs?
Thanks!

ANSWER: depends on what filter you have. If the filter is way to big for the tank you may be ok with the plan. Otherwise go with 10 fish.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have a Tetra Whisper Power Filter and the box says it has a Bio-Bag that is supposed to remove ammonia and nitrites and the size of the filter is for 5-10 Gallon aquariums. Is that ok for 8 Tiger Barbs and 5 Kuhli Loaches? Or should I still stick with the 6 Tiger Barbs and the 4 Kuhli Loaches?

Answer
Hi again Garret,
   Stick with the lesser amount. That being set will you take advice from experience? I wish I knew certain things 35 years ago when I bought that 5 gallon. Those things are to start with a big tank. We all make the same misjudgement in thinking smaller is easier. That may be true in most thing but not with aquariums. Less water makes it easier for nasty, creepy little critters to kill your fish faster. Eventually I ended up with a 150, and two  55's. It is true that in a big tank the cost of fixing trouble is high but there are less troubles.
  You already admitted you want more fish than you have room for. And you are just itching to buy those Angelfish right? And those pretty yellow spooted things.
Admit it. You want more room.
Do it now before you waste 6 months and get a 15 gallon. Then a 30, then a 40, etc.
I suggest you go to Walmart. I can't believe I'm saying Walmart. They have a great deal on a 55 gallon "deluxe" set-up for $199. Includes top, light, heater, filter and everything to get the tank running. You will need to buy other stuff like gravel etc. You said want more room. Do it now. Don't buy fish at Wally world.