American Flagfish ~ Jordanella Floridae

The American Flagfish is a unique and hardy killifish species named for its striking coloration, which resembles the American flag with red stripes and blue-green spots. Native to the slow-moving waters of Florida, this fish is known for its algae-eating habits, making it a beneficial addition to aquariums with algae issues. Its peaceful nature and adaptability make it a popular choice among aquarists looking for an attractive yet low-maintenance fish.

- Size: 2-2.5 inches  
- Lifespan: 3-5 years  
- Temperament: Peaceful, can be semi-aggressive when breeding  
- Group/Solitary: Can be kept singly, in pairs, or small groups  
- Food: Omnivorous, flake food, algae, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)  
- Water Requirements: 68-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0, soft to moderately hard water

American Flagfish are best kept in a well-planted tank that mimics their natural habitat, with plenty of plants, driftwood, and substrate that allows for digging. They are excellent algae eaters, which can help keep the tank clean, but they should also receive a balanced diet of flake food and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. While generally peaceful, they can be territorial and somewhat aggressive during breeding, so it’s best to house them with other peaceful fish that can tolerate their behavior or keep them in a species-only setup. If breeding, a separate tank with gentle filtration and dense plant cover will help mimic natural spawning conditions and protect fry from adult fish.

Native to Florida and surrounding areas, American Flagfish inhabit swamps, ponds, and slow-moving streams. These environments are rich in vegetation, and the Flagfish has adapted to thrive in low-flow water conditions. They are known to be quite adaptable and can live in various water conditions, including slightly brackish environments.

Fun Fact: American Flagfish are one of the few fish species commonly kept in aquariums for their algae-eating capabilities. They are known to consume types of algae, including hair algae, that many other algae-eating species avoid.