Altum Angel Fish

The Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum) is the largest and most majestic of the three freshwater angelfish species, native to blackwater rivers in South America's upper Orinoco and upper Rio Negro basins.

Key Overview & Features

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum altum
• Size: Grows up to 18 cm (7 inches) in body length and 35 to 40 cm (14 to 16 inches) in total vertical height from fin tip to fin tip.
• Distinctive Look: Features a silver body with bold vertical black stripes, red or orange fin accents, smaller scales than common angels, and a unique steep forehead with a pronounced notch ("ski-jump nose") above the snout.
• Origin & Habitat: Found in countries like Colombia and Venezuela (such as the Rio Atabapo and Rio Inírida), living in slow-moving, warm, highly acidic, and soft blackwater environments.

Aquarium Care & Requirements

• Tank Size: Requires a very tall, spacious aquarium—at least 75 to 150+ gallons (60 cm+ in height) to accommodate their tall finnage.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)

• pH: 4.8 to 6.2

• Hardness: 0 to 5 dGH

• Temperament & Tank Mates: Social fish best kept in small groups (5–6 individuals), though wild-caught specimens can be skittish. They are opportunistic predators that will eat very small fish or fry. They pair well with peaceful species like Discus or larger tetras.

• Care Difficulty: Considered challenging or specialist-level because they demand pristine, zero-waste water conditions and are very difficult to breed in captivity