Severum

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Bloat (GDV)

The Severum (Heros efasciatus and close relatives) comes from the Amazon basin and reaches about 20 to 25 cm. The wild green form has dark barring that fades with age; the widely sold gold severum is a captive colour line. It is a deep-bodied, slow-moving fish that spends its time browsing plants, wood and substrate rather than chasing. An adult pair needs 250 to 350 litres at 24-28C, pH 6.0 to 7.5 in soft to moderately hard water, with driftwood, large stones and open swimming room. Feed a good cichlid pellet plus vegetable matter such as blanched courgette and spirulina, with frozen foods as a supplement, since severums eat a substantial amount of plant material and will strip soft aquarium plants. Temperament is mild for a cichlid of this size and it makes a good centrepiece with other calm South Americans, though a breeding pair claims a corner and defends it. It is long-lived and personable, learning to take food from a hand within weeks.

• How active is a Severum?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Severum need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Severum need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Is a Severum a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Severum live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Severum?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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