[1] Its natural base color is silver but with three brownish/red vertical stripes and red striations into the fins.

Most altum angelfish are more frequently found in the well oxygenated, extremely soft waters of Upper and Middle Orinoco tributaries shed from the Guiana Shield Highlands, preferring a pH range between 4.5 and 5.8.

Unlike P. scalare which prefer to spawn on the submerged leaves of plants and trees in the flooded rainforest, P. altum prefers to spawn on submerged roots and tree branches in a moderate water current.

This species is recommended for intermediate to advanced aquarists due to the detailed maintenance it requires for proper health.

True Orinoco Altums are usually only available in aquarium shops from late summer until early winter due to the fact that their native river system's water level is only low enough to allow for successful fishing from July to October.