Description
The Altum Angelfish Pterophyllum altum is the largest of the three described angelfish species. They measure about 7 inches (18 cm) in length but are very tall, with extensive fins reaching up to around 9″ (20 cm) in height. Although larger than its close and well-known relative, the common Silver Angelfish Pterophyllum scalare, this disk-shaped cichlid is very elegant and graceful. It is also known as the Orinoco Angelfish, Atlum Angel, and Deep Angelfish.
The Altum Angelfish is distinguished from the other angelfish species by having a “notch” on the upper part of its snout rather than flatter or slightly rounded forehead as on the other two species. In colour and pattern, it is very similar to a silver-coloured body and dark bars that are brownish/red. The fins can show red striations and adults may have some red spots and a blue-green cast to the dorsal fin. When aroused they will exhibit a black spot on the gill cover. Overall colour differences can often be subtle, but all true Altum Angelfish will have the notch above the nares.
In the past, it was only possible to obtain wild-caught specimens of this fish. This was due to a high mortality rate which for years made the fish practically impossible to breed. More recently, however, it has been successfully bred by some hobbyists and captive bred specimens are now occasionally available as well as wild caught.
