Pterophyllum altum, often called "altum angelfish" or "high angelfish", is a cichlid native to the upper tributaries of the Orinoco and the northern system of the Rio Negro. This 'Rio Inírida' form comes from the Inírida river region and is often distinguished by very high fins, a slender body and demanding rearing conditions. The specimen on offer is 5-6 cm in size, which corresponds to a juvenile that is still developing.

Behaviour & maintenance

• This species is known to be difficult to maintain: sensitive to water quality and transport conditions.
• Prefer a mature, well-filtered aquarium with low stress levels and compatible companions.
• Moderate behaviour: can be territorial when mature - provide sufficient space.

Diet

• Omnivorous to carnivorous: prefer quality pellets/flakes, frozen or live supplements (worms, artemia) to stimulate growth and colour.
• Vary the diet to prevent bleaching of the stripes and encourage liveliness.

Water quality

• Temperature: 26 - 30°C (often around 28°C) for this altum.
• pH: 5.0 - 6.5 (soft water, very low conductivity) ideal.
• Hardness: very low to moderate. Extremely clean, stable water is essential.

Decor & environment

• Minimum recommended volume: 250 L, high water level (> 60 cm) recommended to express high fins.
• Fine sand or neutral gravel, roots, submerged branches, areas of slow current - reproduce an Amazonian / Orinoco biotope.
• Provide shaded areas, floating plants, natural decor, and avoid overcrowding.

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

To get the best out of this altum shape, make sure the tank has been running for several months. Use a dark background to highlight the vertical stripes, soft to moderate lighting and favour a natural decor. This fish does not tolerate fluctuations well: opt for regular but moderate water changes, and monitor the parameters and filtration very carefully.

Shipping & delivery of live fish

The fish are shipped with care in secure isothermal packaging, including pure oxygen and, if necessary, a thermal gel-pack.

Delivery methods

• France Express - Secure delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg.
• In-store collection - Available from our shop in Sombreffe (Belgium).

Shipment organisation

• Orders closed: every Monday at 10.00 am.
• France: dispatches on Monday or Tuesday (depending on department), expected delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium & Luxembourg: dispatches on Monday and Tuesday, estimated delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.