Florida Flag Fish

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Scientific Name: Jordanella Floridae
Maximum Size: 6cm
Lifespan: 5 years
Origin: Florida, U.S.A
Diet: Omnivores
Breeding: Egg Laying
pH Range: 6.5-8.0

The Florida Flag Fish is a small, colourful, peaceful fish. They display a variety of vibrant colours especially during spawning season. We call the Florida Flag Fish our clean-up crew as they are effective in controlling algae as well as insect larvae. They don’t tend to eat aquatic plants as they appreciate having some cover and hideaways. The fish tend to stick to the top levels of the tanks and are not afraid to jump, so when keeping in an aquarium be sure to have some sort of cover.

Florida Flags can be placed in outdoor ponds. It is preferable to establish them during the warm season to allow them to adjust to the colder seasons. During the cold season, some may die off but usually some will survive over Winter and breed up in Spring. There is less chance of survival if introducing them to an outdoor pond in Winter without the time to adjust.

Feeding: The Florida Flagfish isn’t a picky eater. They will feed on small invertebrates, algae, most types of dry, frozen or live foods (as long as it’s small enough to fit in their mouths).

Reproduction: Spawning season is during the warmer months, Spring – Summer. During this time the males can become territorial so make sure to have plenty of space. We suggest having at least 2-3 females for every male. Nipping behaviour may occur during this time, until the females release their eggs. Eggs are released over several days.

Gender Differences: Like most fish species, males tend to be more colourful (especially during spawning). During spawning, females have a rounder abdomen. The Florida Flags have a black blotch on their flanks but it is generally more defined in females and generally only the females get a black blotch on their dorsal fins.

Introducing Fish: Make sure you have put a Water Conditioner/Chlorine Neutraliser into your new pond before introducing fish. We suggest to not overstock a new pond with fish too soon, the water needs time to balance and age. If you have just filled the pond, you will need to wait at least a week or two before introducing fish!! Keep an eye on new fish for the first few hours after they have been released into the pond to make sure they are settling in well.