Can neon tetras live with hillstream loaches?

Verdict
Yes

Yes, neon tetras and hillstream loaches can live together. Both are fine at 72–75°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

Neon tetraNeon tetra72–79°F · pH 6–7 Hillstream loachHillstream loach68–75°F · pH 6.5–7.5

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 72–75°Neon tetra 72–79°Hillstream loach 68–75°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6.5–7Neon tetra 6–7Hillstream loach 6.5–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Neon tetra · 1.5 inHillstream loach · 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

Neon tetraHillstream loach
Temperature72–79 °F68–75 °F
pH6–76.5–7.5
Adult size1.5 in2.5 in
Minimum tank10 gal20 gal
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swims atMiddleBottom
GroupGroups of 6+Groups of 3+
DietOmnivoreHerbivore

Better tank mates for neon tetras

All neon tetra tank mates

Better tank mates for hillstream loaches

All hillstream loach tank mates

Questions

Can neon tetras live with hillstream loaches?

Yes, neon tetras and hillstream loaches can live together. Both are fine at 72–75°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

What temperature suits both neon tetras and hillstream loaches?

72–75 °F. Neon tetras need 72–79 °F, hillstream loaches need 68–75 °F.

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

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