Severum
Heros severus
The severum is a
fairly peaceful
cichlid,
although it will
destroy plants
which it loves
to eat, and will
take small
fishes such as
guppies or neon
tetras. Severums
should be kept
with other
larger peaceful
cichlids such as
geophagines or
some of the more
tolerant of the
“Acara” group.
Severums require
large amounts of
vegetable matter
as previously
mentioned and
peas, lettuce,
zuccini and nori
and all good
foods for this
fish. In
addition to
these vegetable
foods, the
species readily
accepts frozen
or prepared
foods.
Ideally, H.
severus should
be kept in tanks
no smaller than
180L, and
although docile
the severum is
not shy are will
readily rush to
the front of the
tank when people
approach.
Despite this,
some cover in
the form of
rocks or logs is
appreciated and
makes the fish
more
comfortable. The
water should be
soft and
slightly acidic,
although the
species will
tolerate a
variety of water
conditions.
Species Name: Heros severus
‘Gold’ form
Common
Name(s):Severum
Country of
Origin: South
America
Diet: Vegetarian
Water Chemistry:
pH 6.5, kH low
Temperature: 24
- 28 C
Breeding: Breeding is easy in tanks large enough to accomadate a pair. Typical open spawners. Buy 6 juveniles, allow a pair to form. Remove others.
Notes: The Severum is one is one of the most beautiful of the commonly kept South American cichlids. It is available in two colour forms which are the green and the gold, the gold being a breeding form which does not occur naturally. The gold is shown in the picture above.
‘Green’ form
The severum is commonly available at aquariums around Australia and for breeding purposes it is far better to gather several juveniles from various locations.
