American Flag Fish

The American Flagfish, also known as the Florida Flagfish, is a hardy community fish that is one of the few species that eats black beard algae! It is also great for small ponds!

The American Flagfish Killifish (Jordanella floridae) is a colorful, peaceful fish that is native to much of Florida. This generally peaceful, small species displays a great variety of vibrant coloration, particularly when in breeding condition. Males are the most colorful, but females are typically colorful in their own right. In addition to being an excellent display fish in the community and planted aquarium, the American Flagfish is also an effective algae eater, and it is one of the few species that will eat pesky black beard/brush algae! In an outdoor pond, it is very useful for algae control as well as for eating insect larvae.

The American Flagfish often occupies the top level of the water column, although it will inhabit all areas of the aquarium much more than most killifish species. It is not afraid to jump, so it must be kept in an aquarium with either a lid/hood/canopy or at least a significantly lowered water level. It will not eat or bother plants and it will appreciate the cover, especially with floating plants. The American Flagfish is possibly compatible with other peaceful fish and some invertebrate species that thrive in low to moderate water flow. Smaller dwarf shrimp might be considered prey, but most other larger, peaceful shrimp can make good tankmates. Male American Flagfish are somewhat territorial during spawning, so ample space is required for adults, but this species is still best kept in a group. It is rather undemanding regarding water parameters, and it can be kept in both tropical and subtropical setups.

The American Flagfish is an omnivore that feeds on tiny invertebrates as well as algae. It is not a particularly picky eater, so most dry, frozen, and live foods of appropriate size will be accepted. This species requires plenty of meaty foods as well as foods with high plant (preferably algae-based) content, especially if there is not plenty of algae growing in the aquarium.  

What We Like About This Fish:

• Beautiful coloration and small size
• Peaceful disposition with fish and peaceful invertebrates
• Easy to breed in the aquarium
• Very versatile regarding most water parameters
• Excellent algae eater    

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

• Temperature: 64° - 86° F (18° - 30° C)
• pH: 6.5 - 8.0
• KH: 2 - 19 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a pair, 30+ gallons for a small group

CARE INFORMATION: 

• Diet:  Omnivorous. Will accept most meaty foods and also requires plenty of vegetable (particularly algae) content.
• Social Behavior:  Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.  
• Origin:  Florida, United States
• Average Adult Size:  2 - 2.2 inches (5 - 5.5 cm)
• Average Purchase Size:  1 inch (2.5 cm)