Altum Angelfish - Altum Angelfish Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum) is a striking and esteemed freshwater fish species cherished by aquarium enthusiasts worldwide. These majestic Angelfish are renowned for their elongated finnage, graceful demeanour, and striking appearance, making them a cherished addition to the world of ornamental fishkeeping. The Altum Angelfish, distinguished by their sensitivity and specific care prerequisites, is not considered an ideal choice for novice aquarists.
In more capacious aquarium setups, maintaining Altum Angelfish in substantial groups not only enhances their sense of security but also fosters a more authentically natural shoaling behaviour. Cohabitants should be commensurate in size and possess a tranquil disposition. Suitable tankmates may include larger, deep-bodied Characins, other congenial South American Cichlid species, and sizable Corydoras Catfish, among others.
It is prudent to exercise vigilance if a pair of Altum Angelfish forms, as they may exhibit territorial behaviour during breeding, although this is typically manageable within adequately spacious enclosures. It is crucial to note that housing adult Orinoco Angelfish alongside smaller species such as Neon Tetras is ill-advised, as the latter may swiftly become prey.
The Altum Angelfish necessitates an aquarium of above-average height owing to its potential adult size and elongated finnage. Essential water parameters encompass softness, acidity, and minimal hardness. The substrate should exhibit a soft and smooth texture, serving to safeguard the delicate finnage as the fish navigate the lower regions of the tank.
To ensure their well-being and sense of security, it is imperative to furnish the habitat with an abundance of aquatic flora and tall driftwood pieces. Filtration should be both efficient and unobtrusive, while water circulation should maintain a gentle flow. The implementation of regular, modest-sized water changes is advisable to uphold water quality by minimizing the accumulation of pollutants.
The natural base colour of Altum Angelfish is silver but with three brownish-red vertical stripes and red striations into the fins. The species may show red spotting and a blueish-green dorsal overcast when mature and, when aroused, exhibits a black operculum spot. The characteristic of this species is an acute incision or a notch above the nares. All true Orinoco altum specimens show this trait.
Altum Angelfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Discerning the sexual dimorphism of Altum Angelfish is a challenge until they enter their spawning phase. During this crucial period, distinguishing characteristics emerge. Notably, mature males exhibit a smaller, curved, and sharply pointed breeding tube, often accompanied by the development of a subtle nuchal hump. These distinctions become more pronounced as the Angelfish transition into their breeding behaviour, aiding in the differentiation between the sexes.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Altum Angelfish |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1903 |
| Other Names | Orinoco Angelfish, Deep Angelfish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Pterophyllum |
| Origins | Venezuela , Colombia , Brazil |
| Max Size | 17 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.0 - 6.5 |
| GH | 0 - 5 |
| ℉ | 82 - 90 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 28 - 32 |
Natural Habitat
The Altum Angelfish is exclusively native to the Orinoco River Basin and the Upper Rio Negro watershed, spanning regions in Southern Venezuela, Southeastern Colombia, and the northernmost reaches of Brazil in South America. These remarkable Angelfish thrive in well-oxygenated, extremely soft waters characterized by submerged roots and marginal vegetation originating from the Upper and Middle Orinoco tributaries, sourced from the Guiana Shield Highlands.
They exhibit a preference for water conditions characterized by a pH range between 4.5 and 5.8, predominantly in highly transparent blackwaters with negligible electrical conductivity. Temperature levels within these habitats typically range from 78 to 84°F (26 to 29°C). Their presence extends to the floodplains of the Atabapo River, Inirida River, and the downstream regions of the Casiquiare and Guainía, where the Rio Negro originates before entering Brazilian territory.
Breeding
Breeding the Altum Angelfish in a home aquarium setting can be a challenging endeavour, requiring specific environmental conditions and careful management. Maintaining a tank with very soft and acidic water is essential for successful breeding. To facilitate spawning, the aquarium should be equipped with various potential spawning sites, such as broad-leaved aquatic plants and vertically positioned flat pieces of slate against the rear glass. During the pre-spawning phase, both male and female Angelfish will exhibit breeding tubes located between their ventral and anal fins.
Once the spawning process commences, it is imperative not to disturb the aquarium to allow the parents to diligently tend to the eggs by gently fanning them with their pectoral fins. Approximately 2 to 3 days after spawning, the eggs will hatch into "wrigglers," and within an additional 4 to 5 days, they should become free-swimming. At this stage, the juvenile fish can be introduced to a diet of baby brine shrimp (Artemia nauplii). However, successful breeding may not always unfold seamlessly.
There is a propensity for adult pairs to consume their eggs, which can be a source of frustration. In such instances, separating the parents from their offspring may be necessary to achieve a successful outcome. Additionally, there are occasions when Angelfish spawn only once and do not reproduce again, despite efforts to encourage them through adjustments like cooler water changes.
Diet & Feeding
The Altum Angelfish maintains a specialized diet reflective of its natural habitat in the intricate waterways of the Orinoco River Basin in South America. In captivity, these majestic Angelfish are best nourished with a diet predominantly comprised of live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, Daphnia, and small aquatic insects, which emulate their native prey. High-quality fish pellets and flakes, formulated specifically for carnivorous fish, serve as essential components of their dietary regimen.
Additionally, occasional supplementation with small live or frozen fish, krill, and other protein-rich offerings ensures a well-rounded nutrition profile. Thoughtful provision of a diversified and protein-rich diet is pivotal in maintaining the health, vibrancy, and vitality of the Altum Angelfish in aquarium settings, replicating their dietary preferences in the wild.
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