American Flag Fish Care
(Florida Flag Fish)
(Jordanella Floridae)
Minimum Tank Size: 15 Gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperature: 65-82
Maximum Size: 2.5 Inches
Life Span: 4-5 Years
The Florida flagfish gets it's name by the red and blue stripes on its side that somewhat resemble the American flag. They are native to Florida hence "Florida" flag fish. Another neat fact is that they are killifish! Unfortunately these unique little fish aren't seen in stores very often, although they are one of the more common native fish.
The flag fish is usually found in slow moving streams or ponds, even irrigation canals! These bodies of water are usually heavily vegetated. In the aquarium they are usually pretty shy in bare tanks but often they will come out with time. Black substrate seems to intensify the colors of this fish as well as calm them a little.
The flagfish is most happy in groups of six or more, but often males will become territorial so if you are keeping a group make sure you have adequate space for territories to form. With that said, they are happy to be kept as a pair or even singly, but they tend to be more skittish or bothersome to fellow tankmates.
Keeping these fish in a community tank seems to be hit or miss. Sometimes the flagfish will prove to be aggressive fin nippers while other times they will mind their own business. It is generally advised to not put them in with fish that have flowing fins because of this. Fast swimming fish tend to make the best tankmates if your fish end up being aggressive.
The flag fish are usually not picky eaters and will eat just about anything offered. In the wild they feed on insects as well as algae so it is important to offer both meaty and plant based foods. Any flake or pellet food should do well as a staple for them. Most fish will enjoy feedings of vegetables on a regular basis. Occasional feedings of frozen foods are also enjoyed by these fish.
These fish are known to eat hair algae. They will usually go right to town on it but sometimes they will ignore it. Some people report that flag fish have eaten their plants too although I personally have never experienced plant eating from them.
Sexing these is usually pretty easy. Females are generally plumper and larger. They will also have a dark spot in the dorsal fin that is absent in the male fish. Males also tend to be more colorful and a greener overall appearance.
When spawning the males will dig out little pits which he will guard. He will then try to entice a female into his territory and display for her. If the display works the female will hover over the pit and the male will attach himself to the female from underneath her. The male will fertilize the eggs as they are released.
Sometimes the male will guard the eggs but other times the parents need to be removed. The eggs hatch in 7-10 days. Microworms or baby brine shrimp make a great first food. They fry are relatively easy to care for and you shouldn't encounter many problems raising them once you get to this point.