Can hillstream loaches live with white cloud minnows?

Yes, they make good tankmates. Good tankmates. Keep both at 68–72°F.

By Andy · Updated November 6, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, they make good tankmates. Good tankmates. Keep both at 68–72°F.

Yes

Verdict

68–72°F

Shared temperature

20 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Hillstream loach	2.5 in	68–75°F	20 gal	3 or more	peaceful
White cloud mountain minnow	1.5 in	60–72°F	10 gal	6 or more	peaceful

Set the heater to about 70°F, in the middle of the range they share (68–72°F).
Use a tank of at least 20 gallons. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Keep hillstream loaches in a group of 3 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Keep white cloud minnows in a group of 6 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Add plenty of plants and cover so every fish can get out of sight.

For hillstream loaches: African dwarf frog, Amano shrimp, Black neon tetra, Black skirt tetra, Bolivian ram, Bristlenose pleco
For white cloud minnows: Amano shrimp, Cherry shrimp, Corydoras (bronze or peppered), Ghost shrimp, Gold barb, Mystery snail

Want to check a whole tank? Pick up to 8 fish in the fish compatibility checker, which opens with this pair already filled in.

Planning a whole tank? Your First Aquarium includes ready-made stocking plans and care cards for 15 beginner fish. Get the guide for $12