Common name: Spanish flag

Scientific name: Gonioplectrus hispanus (Cuvier, 1828)

General information

The Spanish Flag, scientifically known as Gonioplectrus hispanus, is a striking species of fish that is highly prized in the reef aquarium hobby for its vibrant coloration and unique appearance. This species is part of the Serranidae family, which includes groupers and sea basses. The Spanish Flag is distinguished by its yellow body with a series of red to purple vertical stripes, which can vary in intensity.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
200 liter (53 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 7.8 to 8.4
Average size
22 cm (9″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
Diet
Carnivore Prefers live and frozen foods.
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be aggressive to small fish.
Captive bred
No
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Groupers
    Serranidae
  6. Genus
    Spanish Flag
    Gonioplectrus
  7. Species
    Spanish flag
    Gonioplectrus hispanus (Cuvier, 1828)
  8. Synonyms
    Plectropoma hispanum Cuvier, 1828

Care

Spanish Flags are moderately difficult to care for due to their specific dietary and tank requirements. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and small fish is essential for their health. They are not aggressive towards other fish, but may eat smaller tank mates, so careful selection of companions is important.

Reproduction

In the wild, Gonioplectrus hispanus are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring expert care and a deep understanding of their reproductive behaviors.

Habitat

The Spanish Flag is found in the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Gulf of Mexico to Venezuela, including the Caribbean Sea. They prefer deeper reef environments, typically between 25 to 60 meters, where they can be seen hovering near the bottom or within the reef structure.