Mouthbrooding Severum (3-3.5”)

Scientific Name: Heros liberifer

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Grows up to 8-10"

• Lifespan of around 10–12 years in proper conditions

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Water Parameters:

• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons (280 liters) for a pair, larger for community setups

• Water Changes: 30–40% weekly to maintain stable water quality

• Temperature: 25–29°C (77–84°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.2
  

Tankmates:

• Best kept with peaceful to semi-aggressive South American cichlids of similar size (e.g., Uaru, Geophagus)

• Can be kept with larger peaceful fish such as Silver Dollars, Severum variants, or Plecos

• Avoid overly aggressive cichlids (like Midas, Red Devils) and small community fish that may be seen as prey

Diet:

• Omnivorous with a preference for plant-based foods

• Diet should include:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets

  • Fresh vegetables (spinach, peas, zucchini)

  • Occasional live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill)

• Avoid protein-heavy diets to reduce digestive issues

Overview:
The Mouthbrooding Severum (Heros liberifer) is closely related to the common Severum but is distinct in its breeding behavior, where females (and sometimes males) incubate the eggs and fry in their mouths for protection. They are relatively peaceful for their size and make excellent centerpiece cichlids in a South American community aquarium. Their oval-shaped body, coloration, and unique breeding strategy make them highly sought after among advanced aquarists.

Natural Environment:

• Native to blackwater tributaries of the upper Orinoco and Rio Negro basins in South America

• Found in slow-moving rivers, flooded forests, and areas with submerged roots and leaf litter

• Waters are typically soft, acidic, and tannin-stained

Breeding:

• Distinctive for being one of the few South American cichlids that practices maternal/paternal mouthbrooding

• Pairs form bonds and courtship involves cleaning surfaces and close swimming displays

• Eggs are laid on flat surfaces, but shortly after, the female (and sometimes male) collects the eggs into the mouth for incubation

• Fry are released after 1–2 weeks, and parents may continue to guard them afterward

• Breeding success is more likely in species-only aquariums with soft, acidic water