Can Black Skirt Tetra Live With Hillstream Loach?
Black Skirt Tetra and Hillstream Loach are compatible. Temperature overlap 70–75°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Black Skirt Tetra | Hillstream Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–82°F | 65–75°F | 70–75°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 3" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 15 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Black Skirt Tetra + Hillstream Loach
To keep Black Skirt Tetra and Hillstream Loach together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Black Skirt Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Hillstream Loach should be kept in a school of 3+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Black Skirt Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Black skirt tetras (also sold as black widow tetras) are hardy, easy-to-care-for schooling fish with a distinctive flowing black anal fin that gives them their name. They come in natural silver-and-black and various dyed/modified versions (GloFish). The natural form is the healthiest choice. They can be mild fin nippers in small groups but are generally well-behaved community fish.
Full care guide →Hillstream Loach
Sewellia lineolata
Hillstream loaches are fascinating flat-bodied fish that resemble tiny stingrays. They are specialized for life in fast-flowing, oxygen-rich streams and use their modified pelvic and pectoral fins to grip smooth rocks in strong current. Their unique appearance, algae-eating habits, and cool-water preference make them popular with experienced fishkeepers looking for something different.
Full care guide →