HomeCompare fishReticulate loach vs Hillstream loach Reticulate loach vs Hillstream loach: can they live together? Verdict: With cautionThe Reticulate loach grows about twice as long as the Hillstream loach; watch for bullying or predation.Both are comfortable at 23–25°C (73–77°F).A pH of 7.0 suits both.Minimum tank for the pair: 75 L (20 US gal)Side by sideReticulate loachHillstream loachAdult size15 cm (5.9 in)6.5 cm (2.6 in)Minimum tank–75 L (20 US gal)Temperature22–27.7°C (72–82°F)23–25°C (73–77°F)pH6.5–7.57.0Hardness4–12 dGH (71–214 ppm)–TemperamentPeacefulPeacefulCommunity tankWith caution–Care levelModerateDifficultDietOmnivoreOmnivoreSpecies profilesReticulate loachBotia lohachataHillstream loachGastromyzon punctulatus