Common name: Spanish flag
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
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusSpanish FlagGonioplectrus
- SpeciesSpanish flagGonioplectrus hispanus (Cuvier, 1828)
- SynonymsPlectropoma 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.