Severum (Heros severus) Care Guide

A large, disc-shaped cichlid sometimes called the 'poor man's discus' for its similar body shape. Available in gold, green, and red color morphs.

Overview

Heros severus is a species in the family Cichlidae. A large, disc-shaped cichlid sometimes called the 'poor man's discus' for its similar body shape. Available in gold, green, and red color morphs. More tolerant of water conditions than discus and generally peaceful for its size.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Heros
Scientific name: Heros severus
Other names: Banded Cichlid, Hero Cichlid
Origin: South America, Amazon Basin

Habitat

Heros severus is a deep-bodied cichlid from the Amazon basin and the upper Rio Negro and Orinoco of South America. It inhabits slow, soft, acidic blackwater among submerged wood and roots and feeds on plant matter, detritus and small invertebrates.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 250 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 6-7.5
GH: 4-15 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 15-20 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Position in tank: middle
Compatible tank mates: Bristlenose Pleco, Silver Dollar, Angelfish, Corydoras
Avoid with: Small Tetras, Guppy, Shrimp

Breeding

Breeding strategy: substrate-spawner
Breeding difficulty: intermediate