True Altum Angelfish - (Pterophyllum altum)

🐟 True Altum Angelfish – (Pterophyllum altum) – Majestic Wild-Caught South American Angelfish

The True Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum) is the largest and most majestic of all freshwater angelfish species, native to the slow-moving blackwater rivers and flooded forests of the Orinoco River Basin in Colombia, Venezuela, and northern Brazil. Known for its towering vertical fins, distinctive elongated body shape, and bold vertical stripes, the Altum is considered the “holy grail” of angelfish among collectors. Wild-caught Altums are especially prized for their natural beauty and graceful swimming behavior.

🔎 Quick Facts – True Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum)

• 📛 Common Name: True Altum Angelfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Pterophyllum altum
• 🌍 Origin: Orinoco River Basin – Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil
• 🎨 Appearance: Tall, elongated body with silver base, vertical black bars, and reddish hues near the head
• 📏 Max Size: 12–15 inches (30–38 cm) tall including fins
• 💎 Availability: Rare; wild-caught specimens highly sought after

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Generally peaceful; may be territorial during breeding
• 🐟 Best kept with other calm, non-fin-nipping species
• 🪶 Graceful, slow-moving swimmer

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons (tall aquarium preferred)
• 🪵 Driftwood, vertical branches, and live plants to mimic flooded forest habitat
• 🌊 Gentle water flow; calm water conditions preferred
• 💡 Dim to moderate lighting to reduce stress and enhance coloration

💧 Water Parameters – True Altum Angelfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 80–86°F (27–30°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 4.8–6.5 (acidic)
• 💧 Hardness: Very soft water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous

• 🐟 High-quality flakes and pellets formulated for angelfish
• 🦐 Frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia
• 🌿 Vegetable-based foods for balanced nutrition

📋 True Altum Angelfish Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The True Altum Angelfish is a rare and elegant wild South American cichlid, revered for its towering fins, striking stripes, and peaceful demeanor — a centerpiece for large, well-maintained aquariums.