Description
American Flag Fish (Jordanella floridae)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Jordanella floridae
Common Names: American Flag Fish, Flag Fish
Family: Cyprinodontidae (Killifish Family)
Order: Cyprinodontiformes
Origin: United States — mainly Florida freshwater rivers, streams, and coastal ponds
Size: Up to 3 inches (7–8 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 4 – 6 years
Tank Zone: Mid to upper water column
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 50 – 200 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 8.0
Temperature: 20 – 26°C (68 – 79°F)
Hardness: 5 – 20 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Laterally compressed, slender body with smooth scales.
Coloration: White-silver body with black vertical stripes and bright red/orange tail — resembles the American flag; males are more colorful than females.
Fins: Dorsal and anal fins elongated; caudal fin fan-shaped; pectoral fins translucent.
Behavior: Semi-aggressive; territorial during breeding; active swimmer.
Nature: Diurnal; enjoys planted areas and open swimming spaces.
Special Feature: Excellent algae eater; hardy and resilient species.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, pellets, live/frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms; also grazes on algae.
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily.
Tip: A varied diet helps maintain vibrant coloration and overall health.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters (10 gallons) for a single specimen; larger tanks recommended for groups.
Filtration: Moderate filtration; gentle to moderate water flow.
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel; smooth decorations to avoid fin damage.
Decor: Plants, rocks, and driftwood; open swimming spaces with floating plants.
Lighting: Moderate; enhances colors and algae growth for grazing.
Water Change: 20–25% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Can be kept singly, in pairs, or small groups (3–5); males may display territorial behavior.
Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish of similar size; avoid very small or aggressive species.
Avoid: Small fish that may be nipped or eaten during breeding.
Compatibility Note: Males are territorial; provide hiding spots to reduce aggression.
✅ Do’s
Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots.
Feed a varied diet including live, frozen, and algae-based foods.
Maintain clean, stable water conditions.
Keep males separated if aggressive behavior occurs.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep with very small or aggressive fish.
Don’t neglect water quality; sensitive to ammonia spikes.
Don’t overcrowd; requires space to swim and establish territories.
⭐ Quick Tips
American Flag Fish are hardy, colorful, and active freshwater fish. Their striking red, white, and black pattern, semi-aggressive behavior, and algae-eating habits make them ideal for community tanks or planted aquariums where they can display their colors and activity



