Can hillstream loaches live with african cichlids?
Verdict
No
No. Hillstream loaches and african cichlids should not share a tank. African cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful hillstream loaches.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAfrican cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful hillstream loaches.
- Watch outThey only share 75°F. Keep the heater set there and steady.
- Watch outDifferent water: hillstream loaches want pH 6.5–7.5, african cichlids want pH 7.8–8.6.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Hillstream loach | African cichlid | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68–75 °F | 75–82 °F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 | 7.8–8.6 |
| Adult size | 2.5 in | 5.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 55 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | All levels |
| Group | Groups of 3+ | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Herbivore | Herbivore |
Better tank mates for hillstream loaches
All hillstream loach tank mates
Better tank mates for african cichlids
All african cichlid tank mates
Questions
Can hillstream loaches live with african cichlids?
No. Hillstream loaches and african cichlids should not share a tank. African cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful hillstream loaches.
What temperature suits both hillstream loaches and african cichlids?
75–75 °F. Hillstream loaches need 68–75 °F, african cichlids need 75–82 °F.
What size tank do hillstream loaches and african cichlids need together?
At least 55 gal, set by the african cichlid. Add space for each extra fish.