RED SPOTTED SEVERUM

Red Spotted Severum Cichlid: A Vibrant and Peaceful Centrepiece

The Red Spotted Severum Cichlid (Heros severus) is a stunning freshwater fish admired for its golden-Orange hues and calm temperament. Often referred to as the “poor man’s discus” due to its round, elegant shape, this cichlid brings a vibrant splash of colour and grace to any aquarium. Its manageable size and peaceful nature make it a great choice for aquarists of all levels.

Tank Setup for Severum Cichlids

A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended for Red Spotted Severum Cichlids. Use a sandy substrate and add driftwood, rocks, and plants to create hiding spots and a natural-looking environment. These cichlids thrive in water temperatures between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Regular water changes and strong filtration are essential to maintain optimal water quality for these active swimmers.

Diet and Feeding

Severums are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as their main food. Supplement with live or frozen treats like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for protein. Adding plant-based foods such as blanched spinach, peas, or spirulina flakes supports digestion and enhances their colours. A balanced diet keeps them healthy and ensures their Red Spot tones remain vibrant.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

Severum Cichlids are relatively peaceful compared to other cichlids, making them ideal for community tanks. They pair well with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish like Silver Dollars, Angelfish, or Plecos. Avoid housing them with small or overly aggressive tank mates, as this may lead to stress. Providing ample space and hiding spots helps minimise territorial behaviour, especially during breeding.

Breeding Severum Cichlids

Breeding Red Spotted Severums is a rewarding experience. They are substrate spawners, choosing flat surfaces like rocks or plant leaves for laying eggs. Both parents actively guard the eggs and fry, showing strong parental instincts. To encourage breeding, maintain stable water parameters and provide flat surfaces for spawning. Feed fry baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes to ensure healthy growth.

FAQs

How big do Red Spotted Severum Cichlids grow?
They typically grow up to 20 cm, requiring a spacious tank to accommodate their size and activity.

Are Red Spotted Severum Cichlids aggressive?
They are generally peaceful but may show mild territorial behaviour, especially during breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Good tank mates include Silver Dollars, Angelfish, and Plecos. Avoid small or highly aggressive species.

What do they eat?
Their diet includes cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods, and vegetables like spinach or peas for balanced nutrition.

How do they breed?
They are substrate spawners, with both parents guarding the eggs and fry. Provide flat surfaces and stable water conditions to encourage breeding.

Are they beginner-friendly?
Yes, their peaceful nature and adaptability make them a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Species Overview

• Species: Heros severus
• Common Name: Red Spotted Severum Cichlid
• Origin: South America
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 20 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters