Can Otocinclus Live With Hillstream Loach?
Otocinclus Catfish and Hillstream Loach are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–75°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Otocinclus | Hillstream Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–79°F | 68–77°F | 72–75°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 3.1" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 11 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Herbivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Otocinclus + Hillstream Loach
To keep Otocinclus and Hillstream Loach together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Otocinclus should be kept in a school of 6+. Hillstream Loach should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Otocinclus
Otocinclus spp.
The Otocinclus (Otocinclus spp.) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its brown-gray, dark lateral stripe coloration. Small algae eater. Surfaces.
Full care guide →Hillstream Loach
Sewellia lineolata
The Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its brown-tan, spotted/mottled coloration. Flat body. Surfaces.
Full care guide →