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)

014

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

Food and feeding

Altums have a voracious appetite and will accept all flake and pellet foods. Twice a week they should be offered blood worms or brine shrimp.

Origin

Altums are a South American cichlid, they are mostly found in Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia.

Sexing

Pterophyllum altum are hard to sex, when spawning they will pair off but it is not until the eggs are laid that the females become obvious.

Breeding

Pterophyllum altum are very fussy fish to breed, unlike the other angel fish species, they require very soft and acidic water which is of the highest quality. They will lay their eggs on broad leaved plants or the tank glass. Once the eggs hatch, the parents will protect the fry until the next spawning. The fry should be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp until they reach a size where they can eat crushed flake.

Lifespan

Expected lifespan is 10 years, there are cases of Pterophyllum altum living considerably longer.

Short description

Altum Angel fish are not for beginners, they require a lot of care and premium tank conditions. If their needs are satisfied they will make an excellent addition to the tank.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.