Species profile
Altum Angelfish
Pterophyllum altum
Semi aggressive
Hard care
350 L minimum aquarium
12–18 cm adult size
Mid–top
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Very tall, soft-water angelfish requiring a deep aquarium, excellent water quality and warm, acidic conditions.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
27–31 °C
pH
4.8–6.2
GH
1–5 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Mid–top
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.8
Best maintained in a compatible group in a tall, spacious aquarium; spawning pairs defend a territory.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
350 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pterophyllum altum
Alternative names
Altum Angel, Orinoco Altum Angelfish
Native range
Upper Orinoco and upper Rio Negro systems in Venezuela and Colombia.
Natural habitat
Blackwater and clearwater tributaries with very soft acidic water, submerged wood, roots and vertical structure.
Diet & feeding
Predominantly takes small aquatic invertebrates and other animal foods; captive diets should remain varied and high quality.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Sexual dimorphism is weak; confirmed breeding behaviour and genital papilla are the safest indicators.
Breeding
Pair-forming substrate spawner using vertical surfaces; successful captive breeding is much less routine than with domestic P. scalare.