Can hillstream loaches live with platies?

Verdict
Yes

Yes. Hillstream loaches and platies get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 70–75°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

Hillstream loachHillstream loach68–75°F · pH 6.5–7.5 PlatyPlaty70–80°F · pH 7–8.2

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 70–75°Hillstream loach 68–75°Platy 70–80°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 7–7.5Hillstream loach 6.5–7.5Platy 7–8.2
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Hillstream loach · 2.5 inPlaty · 2.5 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

Hillstream loachPlaty
Temperature68–75 °F70–80 °F
pH6.5–7.57–8.2
Adult size2.5 in2.5 in
Minimum tank20 gal10 gal
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swims atBottomMiddle
GroupGroups of 3+Groups of 3+
DietHerbivoreOmnivore

Better tank mates for hillstream loaches

All hillstream loach tank mates

Better tank mates for platies

All platy tank mates

Questions

Can hillstream loaches live with platies?

Yes. Hillstream loaches and platies get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 70–75°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

What temperature suits both hillstream loaches and platies?

70–75 °F. Hillstream loaches need 68–75 °F, platies need 70–80 °F.

What size tank do hillstream loaches and platies need together?

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