Florida Flagfish

Florida Flagfish (Jordanella floridae)

Also known as: American Flagfish, Florida Flagfish

🐟 Quick Facts

• Size: 2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 3–5 years
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive / territorial
• Origin: Florida and southeastern United States
• Tank Level: Mid to top
• Best Kept: In trios or species-only groups (1 male : 2 females preferred)

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C)
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• Hardness: Moderate to hard (8–20 dGH)
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a trio

🍽️ Diet

• Omnivorous with strong algae-grazing tendencies
• Accepts:
• Algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
• Flakes/pellets
• Live/frozen foods: daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms
• Excellent natural algae control in planted tanks

🎨 Appearance

• Males: Bright red stripes, blue-green body, and a pattern resembling the American flag
• Females: Duller color with black spot on dorsal fin
• Iridescent sheen especially visible under good lighting

🤝 Behavior & Tankmates

• Can be nippy, especially males during breeding
• Best with:
• Fast-moving or semi-aggressive species (e.g. danios, barbs)
• Avoid long-finned or slow-moving fish
• May be territorial in community tanks

🏡 Tank Setup Tips

• Provide dense planting, rockwork, or floating plants to break lines of sight
• Gentle to moderate flow
• Lid recommended—can jump
• Great for coldwater or unheated aquariums

🧠 Notes

• One of the few egg-laying species that can help with algae control
• Breeding males display intense color and guard eggs aggressively
• Hardy and adaptable, but do best in well-maintained, well-oxygenated tanks