✨ Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum)
✨ Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum)
Towering Fins • Wild Heritage • Prestige Species
📋 The Altum Angelfish is the largest and rarest species of angelfish, prized for its towering body height, elongated fins, and graceful swimming. Unlike the common P. scalare, the Altum has a steeper forehead/nape angle, creating a dramatic profile.
Altums are considered a holy grail species for advanced aquarists due to their wild origins, specialized water requirements, and impressive size. They thrive in soft, acidic, blackwater aquariums that mimic their native South American habitats.
With their majestic stature, unique body shape, and wild heritage, Altum Angelfish are a prestige species for dedicated collectors.
💡 Highlights
✨ Towering Fins – body height can exceed 40 cm (16")
⚪ Wild Heritage – collected from the Orinoco and Rio Negro
📏 Largest Species – bigger than P. scalare strains
✅ Prestige Fish – highly sought-after by advanced aquarists
🐠 Striking Profile – steep forehead and deep body shape
🧾 A Quick Look at the Altum Angelfish
📛 Common Name: Altum Angelfish, Deep Angelfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Pterophyllum altum
👨👩👧 Family: Cichlidae
🌍 Origin: Orinoco River Basin, Rio Negro, South America
📏 Max Size: 20–25 cm body (8–10")
💧 pH Range: 4.5 – 6.5
🌡️ Temperature Range: 26 – 30°C (79 – 86°F)
🧠 Care Level: Advanced – requires specialized care
💖 Temperament: Semi-peaceful
🏠 Min Tank Size: 250 L (65+ US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Mid to upper regions
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 10 – 12 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – live, frozen, high-quality prepared foods
🐣 Reproduction: Difficult in captivity – requires large, tall aquariums

















