20 Best Hillstream Loach Tank Mates
Hillstream loaches are fascinating fish that thrive with the right tank mates. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the best companions for your hillstream loaches, ensuring a harmonious aquatic environment.
Cherry Barb
Cherry barbs are small, colorful fish that make excellent tank mates for hillstream loaches. Their peaceful temperament and hardy nature make them suitable for both beginners and experienced fish keepers.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gals (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, accepts a wide range of foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Cherry barbs are schooling fish, so it’s best to keep them in groups of 6 or more. Good water quality and a planted tank will keep them happy and healthy.
Neon Tetra
Neon tetras are famous for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature, making them a popular choice for community tanks with hillstream loaches. These small schooling fish are easy to care for and are ideal for various tank setups.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys flakes, small pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
To keep neon tetras healthy and happy, maintain stable water parameters and provide hiding spots and plants in the tank. They prefer to be in groups of at least 6, enhancing their vivid colors and natural behaviors.
Rummy Nose Tetra
Rummy nose tetras are known for their distinctive red nose and attractive tail patterns. They make perfect tank mates for hillstream loaches due to their peaceful and social nature.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers high-quality flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
These fish do best in schools of at least 6, with the larger group enhancing their striking coloration. Rummy nose tetras prefer a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots, as well as stable water parameters to keep them healthy.
Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin rasboras are small, colorful fish that add a splash of color and personality to a community tank with hillstream loaches. These fish are valued for their hardiness and easygoing nature.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys flakes, small pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Harlequin rasboras thrive in groups of at least 6 and prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. They adapt well to various water parameters, making them an ideal choice for beginner and experienced fishkeepers alike.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf gouramis are peaceful, colorful fish that can be great tank mates for hillstream loaches. They are known for their unique appearance and personable nature.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Dwarf gouramis prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots for them to feel secure. They can generally coexist well with other peaceful community fish, but males might display territorial behavior during breeding. Keep an eye on their interactions to ensure harmony.
Zebra Danio
Zebra danios are lively, hardy fish that can make suitable tank mates for hillstream loaches. Their striking stripes and energetic swimming add a dynamic element to the tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, but active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
These fish thrive in schools of at least 6 and need plenty of swimming space due to their active nature. Zebra danios can tolerate various water conditions, which makes them a popular choice among fishkeepers of all experience levels.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal tetras are renowned for their bright, striking colors, making them a visually appealing addition to a hillstream loach tank. They’re peaceful, schooling fish that enjoy the company of their own kind.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore, requires high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
These fish prefer to be in groups of at least 6 and thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Cardinal tetras require stable water parameters, making them more suitable for experienced fish keepers.
Platy
Platies are colorful, hardy fish that make excellent additions to a hillstream loach community tank. Their friendly temperament and ease of care make them perfect for beginner fish keepers.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm)
Platies are livebearers and can reproduce quickly, so be prepared for potential population growth. They thrive in well-planted tanks with various hiding spots and can adapt to a range of water conditions. Keep them in mixed-gender groups to reduce aggression.
Guppies
Guppies are small, colorful fish known for their hardiness and adaptability, making them ideal tank mates for hillstream loaches. Their stunning tail fins and varied patterns add a splash of color to the tank.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 5 gal (19 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Guppies are livebearers and can reproduce quickly, so be prepared for a growing population in your tank. They thrive in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and can adapt to various water conditions. Keep them in mixed-gender groups to reduce aggression.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are charming, bottom-dwelling fish that make fantastic companions for hillstream loaches. They’re known for their playful nature and ability to keep the tank clean by scavenging for leftover food.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys sinking pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-3.5 inches (4-9 cm), depending on species
Corydoras catfish thrive in groups of at least 5 and require a soft substrate, like sand, to protect their delicate barbels. These fish are known to adapt well to various water parameters, making them a popular choice for fishkeepers of all experience levels.
Kuhli Loach
Kuhli loaches are fascinating, eel-like fish that make excellent tank mates for hillstream loaches. Their nocturnal, bottom-dwelling habits complement the activities of the hillstream loach.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys sinking pellets, live or frozen foods, and some veggies
- Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)
These fish prefer to be in groups of at least 3-4 and require a soft substrate as they like to burrow. Kuhli loaches do well in well-planted tanks with ample hiding spots and appreciate stable water parameters for optimal health. It is essential to have a secure lid, as they can be escape artists.
Molly Fish
Molly fish are delightful, easy-to-maintain fish that can coexist peacefully with hillstream loaches. They’re available in various color patterns and are known for their adaptable nature.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, but can be mildly aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7-10 cm)
Mollies are livebearers and can reproduce quickly, so be prepared for potential population growth. They thrive in well-planted tanks and can adapt to various water parameters, including brackish conditions. Keep them in mixed-gender groups to reduce aggressive behavior.
Ember Tetra
Ember tetras are small, fiery-colored fish that make delightful tank mates for hillstream loaches. Their vibrant color and peaceful nature make them a popular choice for community aquariums.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
These fish thrive in schools of at least 6-8 and prefer densely planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Ember tetras require stable water parameters and dim lighting to showcase their bright colors and natural behaviors. They’re well-suited for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose plecos are unique, bottom-dwelling fish with a distinctive appearance, making them an attractive addition to a hillstream loach tank. They’re valued for their algae-eating habits and easygoing nature.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivore, enjoys algae wafers and blanched vegetables
- Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-12 cm)
These fish require multiple hiding spots, such as caves or driftwood, to feel secure. While they control algae growth, bristlenose plecos also produce a lot of waste, so regular water changes and a good filtration system are necessary to maintain water quality. They’re suitable for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers.
Bolivian Ram
Bolivian rams are peaceful, personable fish that can live harmoniously with hillstream loaches. They’re appreciated for their unique look and friendly demeanor.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers high-quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 3-3.5 inches (7-9 cm)
These fish require a well-planted tank with hiding spots, preferably in pairs or single specimens. Maintain stable water parameters and good water quality. Bolivian rams can show territorial behavior during spawning, so be cautious when pairing them with other species. They’re well-suited for intermediate fish keepers.
Sparkling Gourami
Sparkling gouramis are small, beautifully colored fish that make a suitable addition to a hillstream loach tank. They’re known for their iridescent scales that shimmer in the light.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, sometimes shy
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
These fish prefer well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and calm water conditions. Sparkling gouramis are territorial towards other anabantoids, so avoid keeping them with other gourami species. They’re suitable for beginner and experienced fishkeepers alike.
Endler’s Livebearer
Endler’s livebearers are small, colorful fish that make excellent tank mates for hillstream loaches. They’re admired for their vibrant colors, hardiness, and easygoing nature.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
These fish thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. As livebearers, they can reproduce quickly, so plan for potential population growth. Endler’s livebearers are compatible with various water conditions, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers.
Black Skirt Tetra
Black skirt tetras are hardy, peaceful fish that can complement a hillstream loach community tank. They’re recognized for their unique skirt-like fins and easygoing personalities.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, but may nip fins
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7 cm)
These fish do best in groups of 6 or more to reduce fin-nipping aggression. Provide a well-planted tank with hiding spots and maintain stable water parameters for optimal health. Black skirt tetras are suitable for beginner and experienced fishkeepers.
Discus Fish
Discus fish are considered the “king of the aquarium” due to their elegance and striking colors. Although their care requirements are higher, they make beautiful tank mates for hillstream loaches.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 55 gal (208 L) minimum
- Care Level: Advanced
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore, prefers high-quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
These fish require pristine water conditions, with frequent water changes and a stable temperature. Discus fish thrive in a well-planted tank with peaceful tank mates. Due to their advanced care needs, discus fish are better suited for experienced fish keepers.
Angelfish
Angelfish are elegant, eye-catching fish that can make wonderful tank mates for hillstream loaches in larger aquariums. They’re known for their gentle behavior and beautiful appearance.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, but can be territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm) vertical, 10 inches (25 cm) horizontal
Angelfish do best in a tall, well-planted tank with ample hiding spots. As they grow, they may become territorial or prey on smaller fish, so keep a close eye on tank dynamics. They’re well-suited for intermediate fish keepers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are numerous suitable tank mates for hillstream loaches, from colorful tetras to elegant angelfish. Carefully selecting compatible species will ensure a harmonious, thriving aquarium community. Do you have any favorite hillstream loach tank mates? Feel free to share in the comments below!
