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| Western Australia |
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| Northern Territory |
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| All Other States |
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About the Wild Altum Angelfish
The Wild Altum Angelfish is widely regarded as the king of all freshwater angelfish. Native to the slow-moving blackwater tributaries of the Orinoco River Basin in Venezuela and Colombia, this magnificent species is prized for its incredible height, elegant finnage, and distinctive vertical black bands.
Unlike common aquarium Angelfish, Wild Altums develop an exceptionally tall, laterally compressed body with graceful trailing dorsal and anal fins. Mature specimens can exceed 40 cm in total height, creating an unforgettable display in large aquariums. Their shimmering silver body, accented by bold black bands and subtle blue-green iridescence, makes them one of the most sought-after fish in the hobby.
Wild Altum Angelfish thrive in large, heavily planted aquariums with driftwood, tall plants, subdued lighting, and pristine water quality. They prefer soft, acidic water and should be kept in groups of five or more to encourage natural schooling behaviour and reduce stress. Peaceful tank mates such as Cardinal Tetras, Corydoras, peaceful Geophagus, and other South American species make excellent companions.
A varied diet of premium granules, frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, blackworms, and high-quality live foods will keep Wild Altums healthy and display their spectacular natural colours.
Quick Care Guide
Scientific Name
Pterophyllum altum
Common Name
Wild Altum Angelfish
Origin
Orinoco River Basin, Venezuela and Colombia
Adult Size
18–20 cm body length (up to 40 cm total height)
Temperament
Peaceful
Diet
Omnivore
Minimum Tank Size
450 Litres
Temperature
27–30°C
pH
4.8–6.8
Water Hardness
0–5 dGH
Difficulty
Advanced
Lifespan
10–15 Years
Suitable For
Large South American planted and blackwater aquariums
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Wild Altum Angelfish and common Angelfish?
Wild Altums are significantly taller, develop more elongated fins, require softer and more acidic water, and are generally more demanding to keep than common Pterophyllum scalare.
Are Wild Altum Angelfish suitable for beginners?
No. They require exceptional water quality, very soft acidic water, and a mature aquarium, making them best suited to experienced aquarists.
What do Wild Altum Angelfish eat?
They thrive on premium granules, frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, blackworms, brine shrimp, and quality live foods.
Can Wild Altum Angelfish live with Discus?
Yes. They are excellent companions for Discus, as both species thrive in warm, soft, acidic water and have peaceful temperaments.
Why are Wild Altum Angelfish so expensive?
Wild Altums are difficult to collect, transport, and acclimate. Their rarity, exceptional beauty, and specialised care requirements contribute to their premium value.
Common Mistakes
Keeping them in hard or alkaline water
Wild Altums require soft, acidic water to remain healthy and thrive.
Buying them for small aquariums
Their exceptional height requires tall aquariums with plenty of vertical swimming space.
Adding them to immature aquariums
They are highly sensitive to unstable water conditions and should only be introduced into established tanks.
Keeping them alone
Wild Altums are naturally social and display their best behaviour when kept in groups.
Poor acclimation
Wild-caught specimens require slow acclimation and careful observation to minimise stress and maximise long-term success.
