Dantum Angelfish (Pterophyllum sp.)
Species Overview
The Dantum Angelfish is a stunning ornamental variety admired for its tall body, elegant finnage, and graceful swimming behaviour. Believed to be a selectively bred strain with Altum-like characteristics, Dantums offer the impressive appearance of wild Altum Angelfish while retaining the hardiness and adaptability of domestic Angelfish.
These intelligent and peaceful cichlids make an excellent centrepiece fish for larger, well-maintained aquariums and are best suited to peaceful community setups with similarly sized tank mates.
Care Sheet
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum sp.
Common Name: Dantum Angelfish
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Captive Bred
Adult Size: Up to 15–20 cm tall
Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive
Care Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 8–12 Years
Minimum Tank Size: 200 Litres
Diet: Omnivore
Swimming Level: Mid to Upper
Breeding: Egg Layer
Water Parameters
Temperature: 25–30°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
General Hardness (GH): 2–10 dGH
Diet
Dantum Angelfish are omnivorous and should be offered a varied, high-quality diet consisting of:
- Premium cichlid or angelfish pellets
- Frozen bloodworms
- Brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Blackworms
- Live foods (occasionally)
A varied diet will encourage healthy growth, vibrant colouration, and excellent fin development.
Compatibility
Suitable tank mates include:
- Corydoras
- Larger tetras
- Rainbowfish
- Peaceful Geophagus
- Peaceful plecos
- Other angelfish
Avoid keeping with:
- Fin-nipping species
- Very small fish that may become food
- Aggressive cichlids
Aquarium Setup
A tall aquarium is highly recommended to accommodate the Dantum Angelfish's impressive body shape and long fins. Decorate the aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and hardy plants while maintaining plenty of open swimming space. Gentle filtration and stable water conditions will help these fish thrive.
Breeding
Dantum Angelfish are substrate-spawning egg layers that form monogamous breeding pairs. Eggs are typically laid on broad leaves, slate, or other smooth vertical surfaces. With good water quality and proper care, pairs may successfully raise their fry.
Why You'll Love Them
- Elegant Altum-like appearance
- Tall body with flowing fins
- Peaceful centrepiece fish
- Intelligent and interactive personality
- Hardy compared to true Altum Angelfish
- Suitable for larger peaceful community aquariums

