Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific namePterophyllum altum

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asOrinoco Angelfish, Deep Angelfish, True Altum

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size7 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemp 80-86°F, pH 4.5-6.0, GH 1-5 dGH

Appearance

Taller-bodied than P. scalare with a pronounced notch above the nose; silver body with reddish-brown vertical bars and reflective highlights. Considered the most majestic of the angelfish.

Difficulty and care for the Altum Angelfish

Hard

Origin and habitat

Orinoco River basin, Venezuela and Colombia

Keeper notes

Shy and sensitive rather than overtly aggressive, but territorial when paired. Will eat shrimp and very small fish. Mostly wild-caught and easily stressed; needs a tall, mature, quiet tank with peaceful tankmates. Not for beginners.

Log Altum Angelfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Altum Angelfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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