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The Pterophyllum altum is one of the most sought-after freshwater angelfish among aquarists. Native to the warm, soft and acidic waters of the Orinoco Basin in Colombia, it is recognized by its very tall body, impressive vertical fins and dark stripes. This wild species, with an intermediate rarity level, is best suited to experienced aquarists who can maintain warm, soft and stable water. Its behavior is generally peaceful, but its adult size and requirements call for a spacious, carefully maintained aquarium with suitable structure and compatible tank mates.

General species description

The Pterophyllum altum is a large freshwater cichlid belonging to the freshwater angelfish group. It is valued for its tall, elegant profile, which clearly separates it from the common angelfish. In an aquarium, it develops a majestic presence and spends much of its time in the middle and upper levels of the tank. Wild individuals may be more sensitive to changes in water quality and acclimation than captive-bred fish. This species of intermediate rarity is best kept in a dedicated aquarium or with calm tank mates that are large enough to avoid being eaten. Young fish should be fed regularly and kept in a group to encourage a stable social hierarchy.

Geographic origin and biotope

The Pterophyllum altum comes from the Orinoco Basin in Colombia, particularly the area associated with the Rio Tomo. It inhabits forested tributaries with soft, acidic water often tinted amber by tannins. These environments are commonly bordered by dense riparian vegetation, with submerged branches, roots and leaf litter. The current is usually slow to moderate, with quieter areas where the fish can remain among submerged obstacles. Natural conditions are characterized by low mineral content, acidic pH and high water temperature. In an aquarium, provide very stable water, effective filtration, moderate lighting and a layout that offers open vertical swimming space.

Precise location and local name

The form presented here is associated with the Rio Tomo, a watercourse within the Orinoco drainage in Colombia. In the aquarium trade, it is generally called Altum or Altum angelfish. The term freshwater angelfish is also used in English for members of the genus Pterophyllum, but it is not a precise Colombian local name. Wild populations may differ in body shape, coloration and overall height according to their drainage. To preserve its natural appearance, avoid mixing it with other angelfish forms for breeding.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The Pterophyllum altum has a laterally compressed body with very elongated dorsal and anal fins. Its total height can greatly exceed its body length, creating its spectacular appearance. The base coloration is usually silver to brownish gray, crossed by several dark vertical bands. The forehead is more strongly sloped than that of the common angelfish, and the snout has a distinctive shape. The pelvic fins are long and filamentous. Adult specimens require a tall aquarium, ideally with at least 60 cm of usable height. Wild fish may retain more subdued coloration, but their vertical bands and imposing body profile remain unmistakable.

General diet

The Pterophyllum altum is an omnivore with a carnivorous tendency. In nature, it feeds on small aquatic invertebrates, larvae, crustaceans and small prey found among submerged vegetation. In an aquarium, offer a varied diet in small, regular portions. Quality pellets for larger cichlids, along with frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp and mosquito larvae, can form the basis of its diet. Live foods may stimulate feeding, but they should come from a safe source. Juveniles need frequent meals to support growth. A balanced, protein-rich diet without excess helps maintain good condition while limiting unnecessary pollution in the aquarium.

Essential data

• Origin river: Rio Tomo
• Local name used: Altum; Altum angelfish
• Origin of the scientific name: Pterophyllum identifies the genus; altum refers to the fish’s great height.
• Full-name etymology: Pterophyllum comes from the Greek pterón, wing, and phýllon, leaf; altum comes from the Latin altus, meaning high or tall.
• Common/vernacular names: Altum angelfish; freshwater angelfish
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Cichlinae
• Name pronunciation: ter-oh-FIL-um - AL-tum
• Discovery: Jacques Pellegrin, 1903
• Maximum adult size: About 35 cm total height
• Water temperature and pH: 27 to 30 °C; pH 4.5 to 6.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Forest tributaries with soft, amber-stained water, bordered by roots, submerged branches and dense riparian vegetation
• Typical tank mates: Paracheirodon axelrodi; Pterophyllum scalare; small peaceful characins; peaceful dwarf cichlids
• Temperament and behavior: Generally peaceful, schooling when young and territorial as a pair; may prey on very small fish
• Water depth: Variable according to the area; uses quiet sections among roots and submerged vegetation
• Sexual dimorphism: Difficult to determine outside breeding; the genital papilla is the most reliable clue
• Bottom structure and flow: Bottoms often consist of mud, fine sand, leaves and plant debris; flow is slow to moderate

For aquarium success

Success with the Pterophyllum altum depends on a tall, spacious and mature aquarium with warm, soft and acidic water. Parameter stability matters more than rapid pH adjustments. Because this form is collected from the wild, careful quarantine and gradual acclimation are especially important. Ideally, keep a group of juveniles in a large aquarium, then monitor pair formation and territorial disputes. Strong biological filtration, regular water changes, subdued lighting and vertical roots will help the fish feel secure. Avoid boisterous tank mates and fish small enough to be swallowed.