Flag Fish Questions

[jonathan03]

I have some questions before I get a flag fish for my palnted tank:

1) Is it ok to keep 1 of these in a tank? Aka, they aren't schooling? I heard they are agressive to each other so I want to keep only one.
2) Will they get along with otos and rosy barbs?
3) What are the chances of them eating my plants?
4) Will they eat riccia?
5) Do they like the dark green slime algae that often smothers plants?
6) What do I feed them when the algae is gone?
7) Can they be kept in a planted tank for the long term or will I have to get them out eventually? I.e, can they do a lot of damage to plants?
8) Will they eat adult cherry red shrimp? I have a separate shrimp tank for breeding but I want to add some adults into the main tank for cleanup and show.

 

[Swimfins]

I have 2 flagfish, male and female couple. They are ok with other fish. I haven't had a problem. The male can get a bit punkish but nothing the others can't handle. They like hair algae and will eat it only after they realize they aren't getting more flakes. They have big appetites for fish food. I wouldn't get them unless you really like them however, they aren't a really good solution as far as algae goes, they won't eat green algae. I keep them because I wanted a cichlid looking type fish for my tank. Eating hair algae was a bonus.

 

[tricksterpup]

I have flag fish with my swordtails. They are a great fish and the male does have spectacular colors. As stated they can get punkish and pushy towards the swords but they take in stride. Doing pretty well with them. And if you have a pair, they can move around your plants for a breeding area. So be warned, but they are a great little fish. I do recommend them.