Can hillstream loaches live with congo tetras?

Verdict
Yes

Yes, hillstream loaches and congo tetras can live together. Both are fine at 73–75°F. Plan on at least 30 gal.

Hillstream loachHillstream loach68–75°F · pH 6.5–7.5 Congo tetraCongo tetra73–82°F · pH 6–7.5

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 73–75°Hillstream loach 68–75°Congo tetra 73–82°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6.5–7.5Hillstream loach 6.5–7.5Congo tetra 6–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Hillstream loach · 2.5 inCongo tetra · 3 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

Hillstream loachCongo tetra
Temperature68–75 °F73–82 °F
pH6.5–7.56–7.5
Adult size2.5 in3.0 in
Minimum tank20 gal30 gal
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swims atBottomMiddle
GroupGroups of 3+Groups of 6+
DietHerbivoreOmnivore

Better tank mates for hillstream loaches

All hillstream loach tank mates

Better tank mates for congo tetras

All congo tetra tank mates

Questions

Can hillstream loaches live with congo tetras?

Yes, hillstream loaches and congo tetras can live together. Both are fine at 73–75°F. Plan on at least 30 gal.

What temperature suits both hillstream loaches and congo tetras?

73–75 °F. Hillstream loaches need 68–75 °F, congo tetras need 73–82 °F.

What size tank do hillstream loaches and congo tetras need together?

At least 30 gal, set by the congo tetra. Add space for each extra fish.