Can hillstream loaches live with serpae tetras?

Verdict
Yes

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

Hillstream loachHillstream loach68–75°F · pH 6.5–7.5 Serpae tetraSerpae tetra72–79°F · pH 6–7.5

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 72–75°Hillstream loach 68–75°Serpae tetra 72–79°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6.5–7.5Hillstream loach 6.5–7.5Serpae tetra 6–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Hillstream loach · 2.5 inSerpae tetra · 1.75 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 loachSerpae tetra
Temperature68–75 °F72–79 °F
pH6.5–7.56–7.5
Adult size2.5 in1.75 in
Minimum tank20 gal20 gal
TemperamentPeacefulSemi-aggressive
Swims atBottomMiddle
GroupGroups of 3+Groups of 6+
DietHerbivoreOmnivore

Better tank mates for hillstream loaches

All hillstream loach tank mates

Better tank mates for serpae tetras

All serpae tetra tank mates

Questions

Can hillstream loaches live with serpae tetras?

Yes. Hillstream loaches and serpae 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 serpae tetras?

72–75 °F. Hillstream loaches need 68–75 °F, serpae tetras need 72–79 °F.

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

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