Altum F1 Angelfish

About the Altum F1 Angelfish

The Altum F1 Angelfish is one of the most prestigious freshwater angelfish available, representing the first-generation (F1) offspring of wild-caught Altum Angelfish. Highly prized for their exceptional genetics, elegant body shape, and improved adaptability to aquarium life, F1 Altums offer the beauty of true Wild Altums with the added benefit of being captive-bred.

Native to the Orinoco River Basin of Venezuela and Colombia, Pterophyllum altum is the largest and most majestic of the three recognised angelfish species. F1 specimens develop an exceptionally tall body, elongated dorsal and anal fins, bold vertical black bands, and beautiful bronze, silver, and olive iridescence. As they mature, their graceful appearance makes them a true centrepiece in large planted aquariums and Amazon biotopes.

Altum F1 Angelfish thrive in tall aquariums with driftwood, branches, broad-leaf plants, subdued lighting, and soft, clean water. They are peaceful but should be housed with similarly sized community fish such as Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Corydoras, Pencilfish, Hatchetfish, Geophagus, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Due to their size, they require significantly more swimming height than standard angelfish.

A varied diet of premium angelfish pellets, quality granules, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other live or frozen foods will encourage excellent growth, vibrant colouration, and healthy fin development.

Elegant, intelligent, and exceptionally rare, the Altum F1 Angelfish is considered one of the ultimate showcase fish for experienced freshwater aquarists.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Pterophyllum altum (F1)

Common Name

Altum F1 Angelfish

Origin

Captive-bred F1 offspring of wild fish from the Orinoco River Basin (Venezuela & Colombia)

Adult Size

35–40 cm (including fins)

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

350 Litres

Temperature

27–30°C

pH

4.8–6.8

Water Hardness

1–6 dGH

Difficulty

Advanced

Lifespan

10–15 Years

Suitable For

Large planted aquariums, Amazon biotopes, and premium freshwater display aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

What does F1 Altum mean?

An F1 Altum is the first captive-bred generation produced directly from wild-caught Pterophyllum altum parents. They retain the desirable genetics and appearance of wild Altums while generally adapting more readily to aquarium life.

How large do Altum F1 Angelfish grow?

Adult Altum F1 Angelfish can reach 35–40 cm in total height, making them significantly taller than standard Angelfish. A tall aquarium is essential.

What do Altum F1 Angelfish eat?

They thrive on premium angelfish pellets, quality granules, frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, blackworms, brine shrimp, and other high-quality live or frozen foods.

Can Altum F1 Angelfish live with Cardinal Tetras?

Yes. Cardinal Tetras are one of the classic companions for Altums, particularly when introduced together or when the tetras are fully grown.

Are Altum F1 Angelfish difficult to keep?

They are best suited to experienced aquarists. They require pristine water quality, soft acidic water, stable parameters, and a spacious, tall aquarium to truly thrive.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them in aquariums that are too short

Altum Angelfish require exceptional tank height to accommodate their tall body and elongated fins.

Poor water quality

Stable, clean, soft water is critical. Regular maintenance and excellent filtration are essential.

Keeping them with aggressive cichlids

Choose peaceful South American community fish that won't bully or outcompete Altums.

Feeding only dry foods

A varied diet including frozen and live foods promotes optimum growth, colouration, and overall health.

Purchasing juvenile fish without planning for adult size

Young Altums grow into impressive fish that require spacious aquariums with plenty of vertical swimming room.