Wild Altum Angelfish

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.