Red Severum (3”)

Scientific Name:

Heros efasciatus (Red Severum is a selectively bred color morph)

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 10" in length

• Lifespan: Typically 10–15 years with proper care

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (208 liters) for a single adult

• For a pair or community setup: 100+ gallons or more

Water Change and General Care:

• Water Changes: 30-50% weekly to maintain water quality

• Filtration: High-capacity filtration is crucial due to their bioload

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Substrate & Decor: Sand or fine gravel substrate with driftwood, rocks, and broad-leafed plants (live or artificial); provide caves or hiding spots for comfort

Tankmates:

Red Severums are generally semi-aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding, but more peaceful than many South American cichlids.

Suitable Tankmates Include:

• Geophagus, Electric Blue Acara, Silver Dollars, Large Tetras, Plecos, Rainbowfish, Pictus Catfish

• Avoid aggressive or very small fish that may be bullied or eaten (like neon tetras or fin-nippers)

Diet:

Red Severums are omnivores with a preference for plant matter.

Ideal Diet Includes:

• High-quality pellets or flakes (cichlid-specific)

• Frozen or live foods Shrimp, Tilapia, bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill

• Spirulina-based foods support coloration and health

• Avoid high-protein-only diets; they benefit from vegetable matter

Overview Before Natural Environment:

Though the Red Severum is a man-made morph, its wild-type ancestor (Heros efasciatus) is native to slow-moving tributaries and floodplain lakes in the Amazon Basin in South America. These habitats are often murky with plenty of vegetation and submerged wood, with soft, acidic waters and stable, warm temperatures.

In the home aquarium, replicating these conditions—soft water, driftwood, and subdued lighting—helps promote natural behavior and reduces stress.

Breeding:

Red Severums are egg-layers and form monogamous pairs when breeding.

Breeding Notes:

• Condition with a protein-rich and varied diet

• Once a bonded pair forms, they will clean a flat surface (rock, slate, or leaf) for spawning

• Female lays hundreds of eggs; both parents will guard and fan the eggs

• Eggs hatch in about 3 days, and fry become free-swimming in 5–7 days

• Parents usually exhibit strong parental care, herding fry and protecting them

• Fry can be fed live baby brine shrimp or crushed flakes

Provide a separate breeding tank if housed in a community, as Red Severums become territorial when guarding eggs and fry.

Summary

The Red Severum Cichlid is a striking and manageable Large-sized South American cichlid known for its calm temperament (compared to many other cichlids), intelligence, and strong parental instincts. With the right care, proper tank size, and suitable tankmates, this colorful fish makes an excellent addition to experienced or intermediate aquarists' collections.