(135) Red Spot Severum 2''

The Red Spot Severum is a selectively bred variation of the South American cichlid, Heros efasciatus, the Green Severum. It is known for its yellow-orange base coloration with an intricate pattern of bright red spots and dashes covering its body and face.

• Tank size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with 75 gallons or more preferred for a pair or community tank. The larger the tank, the more space they have to grow.
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel is best to protect their delicate mouthparts as they sift through the substrate.
• Filtration: Robust filtration is essential to handle the bioload of these large cichlids and maintain stable, clean water conditions.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 75 and 82°F.
  • pH: A slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
• Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding spots and visual breaks using driftwood, rocks, and hardy plants. Softer plants may be uprooted or nibbled on. 

• Omnivorous diet: In the wild, Severums feed on a mix of plant matter and small invertebrates.
• Food types: A varied diet is recommended.
  • Staple: High-quality pellets or flakes.
  • Supplements: Include fresh vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and shelled peas. Supplement with frozen or freeze-dried foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
• Feeding schedule: Feed once or twice daily, offering only what they can consume in a few minutes. 

• Generally peaceful: Despite their size, Red Spot Severums are relatively peaceful cichlids. They are not typically fin-nippers but can be territorial, especially when breeding.
• Tank mates: Choose similarly-sized, non-aggressive species. Suitable companions include:
  • Other similarly-sized cichlids like Angelfish, Keyhole Cichlids, or Oscars (in larger tanks).
  • Large schooling fish like Silver Dollars and Rainbowfish.
  • Catfish, such as plecos.
• Group keeping: If keeping in a group, it is best to have at least five or more to prevent aggression, particularly as juveniles. 

• Cave spawners: Red Spot Severums are known to be monogamous pairs and cave spawners.
• Breeding conditions: Raising the tank temperature slightly and providing a cave or flat rock surface can help trigger spawning.
• Parental care: They exhibit good parental care, with both the male and female guarding the eggs and fry.