11 Best Flag Fish Tank Mates 2024 (With Pictures)

As an experienced fishkeeper, I’ve always been captivated by the unique charm of FlagFish. Known for their striking colors and active demeanor, Flagfish is a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts.

However, their vivacity isn’t the only thing to consider when setting up your aquarium. One crucial aspect often overlooked is selecting the right tank mates for your Flagfish. In this post, we’re going to explore 11 ideal companions who can share a tank harmoniously with your FlagFish.

Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting, understanding the dynamics of a community tank is key to creating a thriving environment for your aquatic pets. Let’s navigate through the choices together, ensuring a healthy and visually stunning aquarium for you and your fish.

Best Flag Fish Tank Mates

1. Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras are small, vibrant fish that add a pop of color to any aquarium. They are known for their bright blue and red stripes, which make them stand out in a planted tank.

While Neon Tetras are generally peaceful, their semi-aggressive nature may surface in community tanks. It’s essential to monitor their interaction with other fish, especially those of similar or smaller size.

Proper introduction and a well-structured tank environment can ensure a harmonious coexistence. To maintain their health and vibrant colors, Neon Tetras requires a varied diet that includes high-quality flake food, as well as frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.

They thrive in a tank with plenty of hiding spaces and a densely planted setup that mimics their natural habitat. Regular water changes and maintaining stable water parameters are crucial for their well-being.

2. Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin Rasboras are small, beautifully colored fish, recognized for their vibrant orange bodies and distinctive black patches. They add a splash of color and activity to any aquarium setting.

Known for their peaceful nature, Harlequin Rasboras usually coexist well with other non-aggressive fish like FlagFish. While they are generally easygoing, it’s important to introduce them properly into the tank and ensure a peaceful community setting.

Harlequin Rasboras thrives on a varied diet that includes quality flake foods, as well as frozen or live foods such as daphnia or brine shrimp.

They appreciate an aquarium with ample hiding spaces and densely planted areas that reflect their natural habitat. Maintaining stable water conditions and regular water changes are key to keeping these fish healthy and vibrant.

3. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish are small, bottom-dwelling fish, known for their armored plates and peaceful demeanor. Their subtle yet attractive appearance, with various patterns and colors, makes them a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts.

These catfish are generally very peaceful and can coexist well with other non-aggressive fish like FlagFish. Proper introduction and a well-structured tank environment are important to ensure they feel secure and do not become stressed.

Corydoras Catfish require a varied diet that includes sinking pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms. They thrive in a tank with a soft substrate to protect their delicate barbels and plenty of hiding spots. Regular water changes and maintaining good water quality are essential for their health.

4. Guppies

Guppies are small, vibrant, and one of the most popular fish in the aquarium hobby. They are known for their dazzling array of colors and patterns, as well as their lively behavior.

Guppies are generally peaceful and can coexist well with FlagFish, provided they are introduced properly into a well-structured and stable environment. It’s important to monitor their interaction, especially in a community tank setting.

Guppies thrive on a diet that includes high-quality flake foods and occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia. They prefer a tank with hiding spaces and areas of dense vegetation. Consistent water quality and regular maintenance are key to keeping guppies healthy and active.

5. Mollies

Mollies are small, lively fish known for their diversity in color and fin shapes. They add a dynamic visual element to any aquarium and are adaptable to various water conditions.

Generally, Mollies are peaceful, but they can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior, especially males during breeding. They usually coexist well with FlagFish if the tank is spacious and well-structured, allowing each species their own space.

Mollies benefit from a varied diet that includes flake foods, vegetables, and occasional live or frozen treats like bloodworms. They prefer a tank with ample swimming space and areas for retreat, like plants or decorations. Maintaining stable water parameters and regular tank cleaning is essential for their well-being.

6. Platies

Platies are small and colorful fish, celebrated for their wide range of colors and ease of care. They are a popular choice for both novice and experienced aquarists due to their hardy nature.

Platies are typically peaceful but can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior in certain situations. They generally get along well with FlagFish, especially when introduced into the aquarium correctly and given enough space.

Platies thrive on a varied diet, which should include quality flake foods, vegetables, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp. They appreciate an aquarium with hiding spaces and a planted environment. Consistent water quality and regular maintenance are important for their health and happiness.

7. Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are small, hardy fish known for their distinctive horizontal stripes. Their active swimming and striking appearance make them a lively addition to any aquarium.

These fish are generally peaceful but can be quite active, which might intimidate more timid tank mates. They usually coexist well with FlagFish when properly introduced and provided with enough space to swim freely.

Zebra Danios do well on a diet that includes quality flake foods and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. They prefer an environment with open swimming areas and some hiding places. Keeping the water clean and maintaining stable conditions are key to their health.

8. Cherry Barbs

Cherry Barbs are small, attractive fish known for their bright red color, particularly in males during spawning. They add a vibrant touch to any aquarium and are known for their peaceful and shy nature.

Cherry Barbs are generally peaceful and can coexist well with Flag fish. They tend to be timid, so it’s important to monitor their interactions in the community tank and ensure they are not outcompeted for food or hiding spaces.

A varied diet is key for Cherry Barbs, including quality flake food, and occasional live or frozen foods like daphnia or bloodworms. They thrive in a planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces. Consistent water quality and a stable environment are important for maintaining their health and coloration.

9. Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus Catfish are small and often sought after for their ability to clean algae in aquariums. They have a subtle yet pleasing appearance, with a mix of light and dark tones across their bodies.

These catfish are peaceful and can coexist well with FlagFish. They are best introduced into a stable, mature aquarium where they can find sufficient algae and biofilm to graze on.

While Otocinclus primarily feeds on algae, they require a varied diet that includes algae wafers and occasional blanched vegetables like zucchini. They thrive in a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places and a gentle current. Keeping the tank clean and the water parameters stable is crucial for their well-being.

10. Dwarf Gouramis

Dwarf Gouramis are small, beautifully colored fish, admired for their striking appearance and engaging behavior. They come in various colors, adding an attractive element to the aquarium.

Generally peaceful, Dwarf Gouramis can show semi-aggressive tendencies, particularly males. Proper introduction and adequate space are essential for coexistence with FlagFish. Monitoring their interactions, especially in a community setting, is important.

Dwarf Gouramis require a balanced diet including quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp. They appreciate a well-planted tank with hiding spots and calm areas to rest. Regular maintenance and stable water conditions are key to their health.

11. Ghost Shrimp

Ghost Shrimp are small, intriguing invertebrates, named for their transparent bodies that make them almost invisible in the aquarium. They add a unique element to the tank, often fascinating to observe.

These shrimp are peaceful and can coexist well with FlagFish, provided they are not seen as prey. It’s essential to monitor their interactions, especially in a tank with larger or more aggressive fish.

Ghost Shrimp feed primarily on detritus, algae, and leftover food, making them excellent cleaners. They also benefit from a varied diet including specialized shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and occasional live or frozen foods. A tank with hiding places and a stable environment is vital for their survival and well-being.