Altum Angelfish (Pterophyllum altum) are renowned for their impressive size and graceful appearance, but they require specific care to thrive in captivity. Here's a comprehensive guide to keeping Altum Angelfish:
Tank Setup:
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Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a single Altum Angelfish due to their potential height of up to 15 inches. For groups, larger tanks are necessary to accommodate their size and social behavior.
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Height: A tall aquarium is essential to accommodate their elongated fins and vertical swimming habits.
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Substrate and Decor: Use soft, smooth substrates like sand or fine gravel to protect their delicate fins. Incorporate driftwood, submerged roots, and aquatic plants to mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spots.
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Lighting: Dim lighting is preferred, as Altum Angelfish are accustomed to shaded environments. Floating plants can help diffuse light and create a comfortable setting.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: Maintain water temperatures between 82°F and 90°F (28°C to 32°C).
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pH: Keep the pH between 4.8 and 6.2 to replicate their native acidic waters.
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Hardness: Ensure very soft water conditions, with hardness levels up to 5°H.
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Filtration: Use efficient filtration to maintain pristine water quality, but ensure the water flow is gentle, as Altums prefer calm waters.
Diet:
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Primary Foods: Altum Angelfish are omnivorous. Offer a varied diet including live foods like white mosquito larvae, bloodworms, daphnia, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and mysis shrimp.
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Transitioning Foods: Wild-caught specimens may be reluctant to accept prepared foods initially. Start with live foods and gradually introduce frozen or high-quality flake foods to diversify their diet.
Tank Mates:
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Compatibility: Altum Angelfish are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding. Suitable tank mates include larger, peaceful species such as certain tetras, larger rasboras, and non-aggressive cichlids. Avoid housing them with small fish that could be seen as prey or with aggressive species that may harass them.
Breeding:
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Challenges: Breeding Altum Angelfish in captivity is challenging due to their specific water requirements and sensitivity to environmental changes.
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Preparation: Provide very soft, acidic water with a pH between 4.8 and 7.5, and a temperature around 82°F (28°C). Condition breeding pairs with a high-quality, protein-rich diet.
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Spawning: Pairs typically engage in courtship rituals before laying eggs on clean, vertical surfaces. Both parents guard and fan the eggs to prevent fungal growth and protect the fry after hatching.
General Care Tips:
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Water Quality: Altum Angelfish are sensitive to nitrates and pollutants. Perform regular water changes of 25% to 30% weekly to maintain optimal conditions.
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Stress Reduction: Minimize stress by maintaining stable water parameters, providing adequate hiding spots, and avoiding sudden changes in their environment.
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Health Monitoring: Regularly observe for signs of disease or stress, such as changes in behavior, appetite, or appearance, and address issues promptly.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can create a suitable environment for Altum Angelfish, allowing them to flourish and display their natural beauty.
