Gold Severum Care Guide
Gold Severum is a selectively bred xanthistic form of Heros severus, a banded cichlid from the upper Orinoco and upper Rio Negro.
Overview
The Gold Severum is a captive-bred xanthistic form of Heros severus, the banded cichlid. Selective breeding fixes a bright golden-yellow body in place of the wild olive coloration. It is a deep-bodied, laterally compressed cichlid of moderate size.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Heros
- Scientific name: Heros severus "Gold"
- Wild form: Heros severus Heckel, 1840
Habitat
Heros severus is native to the upper Orinoco and upper Rio Negro basins in South America. It is associated with slow-moving, often soft and acidic blackwater habitats with submerged structure.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-29 °C (75-84 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Adult size: 18-25 cm (wild fish typically around 13.5 cm, up to about 20 cm)
Diet
Heros severus feeds largely on small benthic invertebrates and plant material in its habitat, behaving as a vegetarian-leaning omnivore. In captivity it accepts quality prepared foods alongside vegetable matter and occasional live or frozen invertebrates.
Compatibility
Severums are relatively peaceful for cichlids of their size and occupy the middle of the water column. Suitable companions are calm, similarly sized South American species; very small fish that can be eaten and boisterous aggressive cichlids should be avoided.