https://www.chewy.com/education/fish/freshwater-fish/the-altum-angelfish
*Freshwater fish are among the most popular aquarium pets for a reason—they’re colorful, diverse, and relatively easy to care for. The Freshwater Fish Education Hub covers everything from filtration and feeding to compatible tank mates and water quality.
In the tropical fish hobby, the angelfish is one of the most commonly kept species, thanks to the many beautiful color and fin variations developed by breeders over the years.
While the standard angelfish has become a staple in aquariums worldwide, the other two lesser-known types - the long nosed angelfish and the altum angelfish - are far more rare. The long nosed variety is seldom seen and not much is known about its care or breeding.
In contrast, the altum, also called the deep or high bodied angelfish, is occasionally available and widely admired for its elegant appearance.
With a taller, more vertical body, long flowing fins, and a distinct forehead shape, the altum stands out as the most majestic of the 3. It originates from the Orinoco River in Venezuela and requires different care than the commonly raised angelfish.
Keeping altum angelfish successfully means maintaining pristine water conditions, providing a tall, well planted tank, and feeding a varied diet rich in live or frozen foods.
These fish thrive in soft, slightly acidic water and consistent warm temperatures, ideally between 82 and 86°F.
Due to their delicate mouths and sensitive nature, they should be kept in peaceful tanks with gentle substrate and non aggressive tank mates like small catfish.
Wild caught altums should go through a quarantine period and may arrive with minor injuries or parasites, which can often be managed with careful attention and proper diet.
Because they are sensitive to many medications, water quality must be carefully maintained to prevent illness. Though challenging to care for, altums are deeply rewarding for experienced aquarists and deserve greater attention in the hobby to help reduce the need for wild collection.
Chewy editorial team encourages experienced aquarists to consider the rewarding challenge of caring for altum angelfish, whose beauty and grace make them a standout in any aquarium. By providing the specialized care they require, hobbyists can help preserve this remarkable species for generations to come.
