Santa Isabel Altum Angelfish

This wild angelfish is nicknamed "altum," but it is actually a scalare and therefore a bit hardier than true altums. Nevertheless, wild Santa Isabels need temperatures above 77 degrees and pH below 7. Very adaptable to the aquarium, they stand out with their round body and bold black line through the eye. Named after the town of Santa Isabel on the Rio Negro.

Quick Facts

Care Guide

Tank setup: Give them a heater, gentle filtration, driftwood and tall plants. Wild-type angels do best in soft, slightly acidic water.

Feeding: Feed small amounts once or twice a day. Many wild angels learn to take flake and pellets once settled. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.

Tankmates: Choose calm fish that like soft, warm water and are too large to swallow, such as larger tetras, corydoras and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid fin-nippers and boisterous fish.

Breeding: Angelfish pair off and lay eggs on flat surfaces like broad leaves or slate. A breeding pair can become territorial, so give them room and places for other fish to retreat.

Good to know: Wild-type angelfish are more sensitive than tank-bred angels. Acclimate them slowly and keep the water soft, warm and very clean.