Can Nerite Snail Live With Hillstream Loach?
Nerite Snail and Hillstream Loach are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–75°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Nerite Snail | Hillstream Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–78°F | 65–75°F | 72–75°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 1" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 5 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Herbivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Nerite Snail + Hillstream Loach
To keep Nerite Snail and Hillstream Loach together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. 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
Nerite Snail
Neritina spp.
Nerite snails are the best algae-eating snails for freshwater aquariums. They come in beautiful patterns (zebra, tiger, horned, olive) and will not reproduce in freshwater — making them the ideal pest-free algae cleanup crew. A single nerite can keep a 5-gallon tank virtually algae-free.
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 →