I've been doing tons of research lately and the only thing people can seem to agree on in regards to stocking is that the 1 inch/gallon rule is junk.
People who have filters that 'overfilter' their tank can sure, people who change their water meticulously, sure. I'm glad you feel so confident in your ability as a noobie and your dedication to the wellbeing of your fish that you will gain the ability to successfully crowd your tank. Personally, as a newbie who listens to the advise of the people on the forum who have a lot more experience than me and not to the LFS, I will stick to the 'rule' until I have a proven track record of doing what is above and beyond the call for the 'rule' then think about over crowding my tank.
[/quote] Even if we did take it as gospel, I'm only going over by maybe 2 inches, which from what I've learned, isn't a problem as long as I keep up with water changes. [/quote]
Below are average or slightly below max lengths of fish:
3 Zebras @ 2in = 6 inches
1 Platy @ 2in = 2 inches
8 Neons @ 1.25 in = 10 inches
4 Julii @ 8 in = 8 inches
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= 26 inches
and you are asking about adding more fish?
There's keeping, then there's thriving. People keep German Shepards and other large dog breeds in small apartments too. Is the dog going to live, yes. Is he going to be happy to see his people, yes. Is it the right thing to do by the dog....?
You are free to do what you want. I don't think there is anyone in the world that would take a complaint of 'fish abuse' seriously, but my original point stands. If you don't want to follow the advise you are getting here, please stop asking for more advise about a situation we've already advised you against.