Overview

A tall Peruvian angelfish sold under the trade name Peru Altum. This name usually refers to a Pterophyllum scalare form, rather than the true Orinoco altum. Adults can reach 15cm body length and 25–30cm including fins.

Scientific name: Pterophyllum scalare

Behaviour

Juveniles are social, but adults may form pairs and defend territories. Start a juvenile group only if its eventual adult space and homes for surplus fish are arranged.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 250 litres with a 120 × 45cm base and a tank at least 50cm high for a compatible adult pair. For six growing fish, plan 450 litres or more, around 150 × 60cm with at least 60cm height.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Choose calm, suitably sized warm-water fish. Small neons and tiny shrimp can be eaten by adults. Avoid fin-nipping barbs and crowded groups of other territorial cichlids.

Diet

Feed quality small cichlid pellets or flakes, with brine shrimp and other suitable frozen foods. Juveniles benefit from several small meals rather than one oversized feeding.

Care

• Temperature: 25–28°C
• pH: 6.0–7.4
• General hardness: 2–12 dGH

Provide tall plants and branches without filling all vertical space. Use gentle flow and stable water. Remove persistently bullied individuals when pairs develop. Confirm supplier identity before treating the stock as true Pterophyllum altum.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.