Can apistogramma live with zebra loaches?

Verdict
Yes

Yes, apistogramma and zebra loaches can live together. Both are fine at 75–79°F. Plan on at least 30 gal.

ApistogrammaApistogramma75–84°F · pH 5–7 Zebra loachZebra loach73–79°F · pH 6–7.5

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 75–79°Apistogramma 75–84°Zebra loach 73–79°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6–7Apistogramma 5–7Zebra loach 6–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Apistogramma · 3 inZebra loach · 3.5 in0"1"2"3"4"5"6"
Adult length in an aquarium. A fish can swallow anything that fits in its mouth, roughly a third to half its own length for predators.

Care at a glance

ApistogrammaZebra loach
Temperature75–84 °F73–79 °F
pH5–76–7.5
Adult size3.0 in3.5 in
Minimum tank20 gal30 gal
TemperamentSemi-aggressivePeaceful
Swims atBottomBottom
GroupAlone or in pairsGroups of 5+
DietCarnivoreOmnivore

Better tank mates for apistogramma

All apistogramma tank mates

Better tank mates for zebra loaches

All zebra loach tank mates

Questions

Can apistogramma live with zebra loaches?

Yes, apistogramma and zebra loaches can live together. Both are fine at 75–79°F. Plan on at least 30 gal.

What temperature suits both apistogramma and zebra loaches?

75–79 °F. Apistogramma need 75–84 °F, zebra loaches need 73–79 °F.

What size tank do apistogramma and zebra loaches need together?

At least 30 gal, set by the zebra loach. Add space for each extra fish.