Altum angelfish - Pterophyllum altum

Scientific name: Pterophyllum altum

Common name: Altum angelfish

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 15 cm (3.94 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 4.5 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 18°N (0 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum) is native to the slow-moving rivers and tributaries of South America, particularly in Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia. These waters are typically soft and acidic, often shaded by dense vegetation with sandy or muddy substrates. Altum Angelfish are accustomed to stable water conditions with low mineral content, which is essential to replicate in the aquarium to keep them healthy.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Altum Angelfish can live up to 10 years in captivity, although there have been reports of them living even longer. Maintaining a stable, well-maintained tank environment is key to ensuring their longevity.

Short description

Altum Angelfish are highly sought after by experienced aquarists due to their striking appearance and unique care requirements. These fish have tall, elegant bodies with long fins and a silver base coloration marked by vertical stripes. They are peaceful fish but require large aquariums and precise water conditions. With an average size of 10-15 cm (3.94-5.91 inches) in captivity, Altum Angelfish are best suited to spacious tanks. They are known to be delicate and require a more advanced level of care, making them better suited to intermediate or expert fish keepers.

General care

Altum Angelfish are not recommended for beginners due to their sensitivity to water quality and specific care requirements. They need a tank of at least 150 liters (40 gallons) for a small group, though larger tanks are preferred. The water temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C (75.2-82.4°F), with a pH range of 4.5-7, and water hardness between 0-18°N (0-321.43 ppm). Altums prefer a planted aquarium with plenty of vertical space for swimming. Large, broad-leaved plants such as Amazon Swords or Anubias species are ideal.

Compatible Fish Species

Altum Angelfish are peaceful, making them suitable tankmates for other peaceful species from South America. Here are a few compatible species that thrive in similar water conditions and are similar in size:

• Blackstripe dwarf cichlid (Apistogramma gibbiceps)
• Ornate cory (Corydoras ornatus)
• Black Peru corydoras (Corydoras semiaquilus)
• Emerald catfish (Brochis splendens)
• Macmaster's dwarf cichlid (Apistogramma macmasteri)

Tank Setup and Plants

Altum Angelfish thrive in a well-planted aquarium that mimics their natural habitat. The following plant species are well-suited for an Altum tank, as they can tolerate the soft, acidic water conditions preferred by Altum Angelfish:

• Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
• Ludwigia helminthorrhiza
• Echinodorus angustifolius
• Echinodorus osiris
• Alternanthera rosaefolia

A high-quality filtration system is essential to maintain water quality. Perform regular water changes to ensure stability, as Altum Angelfish are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters. In terms of decoration, provide large rocks, driftwood, and floating plants to replicate the shaded and sheltered environments they are used to in the wild.

Feeding

Altum Angelfish have a voracious appetite and will accept a variety of foods. A diet of high-quality flakes or pellets should be supplemented with live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp, at least twice a week. This ensures they receive the proper nutrition and helps to bring out their best coloration. Be mindful of overfeeding, as Altums are prone to digestive issues if fed too much.

Sexing

Sexing Altum Angelfish is challenging, as they do not show obvious physical differences between males and females. However, pairs will form during the spawning process, and females become more noticeable once they begin laying eggs. Males tend to be more territorial during breeding periods.

Breeding

Breeding Altum Angelfish can be difficult, as they require very soft, acidic water and pristine conditions. They lay their eggs on broad-leaved plants or on the tank glass. Once the eggs are laid, the parents will guard the fry until the next spawning. Newly hatched fry should be fed brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough to accept larger meals.

Pictures

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