Florida Flagfish (Jordanella floridae) – colorful North American killifish with red, blue, and green flag-like patterns in a planted aquarium.

Florida Flagfish Care Guide (Jordanella floridae)

🐟 Florida Flagfish Care Guide (Jordanella floridae)

🌟 Overview The Florida Flagfish is a colorful North American killifish named for its striking red, blue, and green patterns that resemble the U.S. flag. Native to Florida’s marshes, ponds, and slow-moving streams, these hardy fish are excellent algae eaters and are ideal for aquarists looking for a unique yet low-maintenance species.

🔑 Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Jordanella floridae
  • Common Name: Florida Flagfish
  • Origin: Florida, USA (native to North America)
  • Size: 2–2.5 inches (5–6 cm)
  • Lifespan: 3–5 years
  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially males)
  • Care Level: Easy to Moderate

🏠 Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
  • Water Temperature: 68–78°F (20–25°C)
  • pH: 6.5–8.0
  • Hardness: 6–20 dGH
  • Aquascape: Dense planting with open swimming space; floating plants recommended
  • Filtration: Moderate flow, clean water

🍽️ Diet

Florida Flagfish are omnivores with strong algae-grazing habits:

  • Algae and biofilm (excellent natural algae control)
  • High-quality flakes and pellets
  • Vegetables: blanched zucchini, spinach, peas
  • Live/frozen foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia

🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates

  • Best with peaceful to semi-aggressive species like mollies, swordtails, danios, rainbowfish, and corydoras
  • Avoid slow-moving fish with long fins (e.g., bettas, angelfish) as males may nip
  • Can be kept in species-only tanks for breeding

🧠 Behavior & Tips

  • Males are more colorful with stronger patterning, females are rounder and less vibrant
  • Known to nip fins if not kept in the right community setup
  • Excellent algae eaters, especially hair algae
  • Keep 1 male with 2–3 females to reduce aggression

❓ FAQ

Q: Are Florida Flagfish good algae eaters?
A: Yes, they are one of the best natural algae grazers in the hobby.

Q: Do they need to be kept in groups?
A: They can be kept in pairs or small groups, but avoid multiple males in small tanks.

Q: Can Florida Flagfish live outdoors?
A: Yes, they tolerate cooler temperatures and can thrive in outdoor tubs and ponds during warmer months.

Q: How long do they live?
A: Typically 3–5 years with good care.

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