Severums are large, deep-bodied South American cichlids often called the 'Poor Man's Discus'. They are relatively peaceful for their size compared to other large cichlids, but they are notorious plant destroyers with a highly herbivorous diet. They require spacious aquariums with excellent filtration.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Wild Type / Green)
The natural wild coloration, featuring a greenish-brown base with faint vertical banding that becomes more pronounced depending on mood.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Green Severum, Wild Type Severum
Gold / Red Spotted
A highly popular selectively bred color morph lacking the dark banding, ranging from solid yellow/gold to heavily covered in bright red spots.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Gold Severum, Red Spotted Severum, Super Red
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Severums are often sold at 2-3 inches. They can temporarily be housed in smaller aquariums but will grow rapidly and require at least a 75-gallon (280L) tank as adults. They should not be kept with fish small enough to fit in their mouths as they grow.
Differs in 6 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Severum
Severum Care Guide Summary
The Severum, scientifically known as Heros severus, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 25 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Severum requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 29°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Severum is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard (Wild Type / Green), Gold / Red Spotted, and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Severum Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Severum, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Severum Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Severum is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Severum
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Similar Species
Discus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Known as the 'King of the Aquarium', Discus are stunning, heavily laterally-compressed cichlids. They are famous for their demanding husbandry, requiring high temperatures (28-32°C / 82-90°F), pristine water quality, and specialized diets. They are schooling fish that establish a strict pecking order and must be kept in groups to prevent intense bullying of a single weaker fish.
Kribensis
Pelvicachromis pulcher
A vibrant and highly popular dwarf cichlid native to the slow-moving rivers of West Africa. Unlike Rift Lake African cichlids, they prefer soft, slightly acidic water and densely planted tanks. They are generally peaceful in a community tank but become fiercely territorial and aggressive when breeding, often digging pits in the substrate and claiming the bottom zone. They are cave spawners and require hiding spots like driftwood or coconut shells.
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
A majestic and iconic deep-water cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, famous for its striking black and white bands and the prominent nuchal hump on its head. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants compared to other African cichlids. However, they are highly effective piscivores and will easily consume smaller fish. They are best kept in a 'harem' colony of one male to multiple females.
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
A highly intelligent, large, and personable South American cichlid often described as a 'water dog'. They are notoriously messy eaters, heavy waste producers, and will enthusiastically rearrange tank decor and uproot plants. Any fish small enough to fit in their mouth will be eaten. They require excellent filtration and strict water maintenance.
Scarlet Badis
Dario dario
One of the smallest known aquarium fish, resembling a tiny jewel. Males display brilliant vertical red and iridescent blue stripes. While beautiful, they are known for being extremely picky eaters, often refusing dry foods and requiring live or frozen micro-foods (Daphnia, Baby Brine Shrimp). Males act like tiny Cichlids and will stake out territories.