Can hillstream loaches live with lemon tetras?

Verdict
Yes

Yes. Hillstream loaches and lemon tetras get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 72–75°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 72–75°Hillstream loach 68–75°Lemon tetra 72–82°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6.5–7.5Hillstream loach 6.5–7.5Lemon tetra 5.5–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Hillstream loach · 2.5 inLemon tetra · 2 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 loachLemon tetra
Temperature68–75 °F72–82 °F
pH6.5–7.55.5–7.5
Adult size2.5 in2.0 in
Minimum tank20 gal15 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 lemon tetras

All lemon tetra tank mates

Questions

Can hillstream loaches live with lemon tetras?

Yes. Hillstream loaches and lemon tetras get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 72–75°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

What temperature suits both hillstream loaches and lemon tetras?

72–75 °F. Hillstream loaches need 68–75 °F, lemon tetras need 72–82 °F.

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

At least 20 gal, set by the hillstream loach. Add space for each extra fish.