American Flagfish

[omgfish]

I recently acquired two male American flagfish from the LFS. I had never even heard of them before but thought they looked pretty neat, and read about how much they love hair algae. They are currently in my 10g quarantine tank. I also have a red glass barb in the tank. In a single night the larger of the two flagfish nipped most of the fins of the barb off. I placed the barb in a separator and added some melafix to the tank. I am now noticing the larger flagfish picking on the smaller flagfish. I am wanting to put these guys in a 75g heavily planted tank that houses 4 congo tetras, 3 rosey barbs, 3 rainbows, 2 golden algae eaters, and a bn pleco. I have read a couple things about flagfish not getting along with fish with frilly fins. I am a little worried about the congo tetras, even though they are quite a bit larger than the flagfish. Does anyone have any experience with these fish in a large planted tank? Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks

 

[Apocalypse_Gold]

Two males will probably not get along, especially in half of a 10 gallon tank. You should consider replacing one with a female (or add 2-3 females). They are more territorial in smaller tanks so a heavily planted 75 would be a good home. In my experience, flagfish only pick on smaller fish.

 

[squawkbert]

Another Flagfish thing - I've heard that once they're out of algae, they'll snack on your plants.