Bring vibrancy to your tank with the Red Severum. These colorful cichlids add beauty and charm to any aquarium setup.

Overview:

• The Red Severum (Heros efasciatus) is a captivating freshwater cichlid species renowned for its stunning red coloration and serene demeanor.
• Native to South America, particularly the Amazon Basin, these fish thrive in warm, tropical waters and are cherished by aquarists for their striking appearance and peaceful nature.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain water temperatures between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) to ensure the well-being and vitality of Red Severums.
• pH Levels: Prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Water Hardness: Tolerates a wide range of water hardness, but prefers moderately soft to moderately hard water conditions.

Tank Mates:

• Peaceful Community Fish: Red Severums are relatively peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tank mates.
• Suitable Tank Mates: Include other peaceful fish species such as tetras, rasboras, danios, gouramis, and other cichlid species from the same region.
• Avoid Aggressive Species: Avoid housing with aggressive or territorial fish that may harass or stress the Red Severums.

Feeding Habit:

• Omnivorous Diet: Red Severums are omnivores and accept a diverse diet comprising high-quality flakes, pellets, live, and frozen foods.
• Vegetable Matter: Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach to ensure a balanced nutritional intake.
• Feed Regularly: Offer small, frequent meals throughout the day to accommodate their feeding habits and promote optimal health.

Care:

• Tank Size: Provide a spacious aquarium of at least 55 gallons to accommodate a pair or small group of Red Severums comfortably.
• Aquascaping: Decorate the tank with ample hiding spots, caves, and driftwood to mimic their natural habitat and provide territorial boundaries.
• Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality through regular water changes and efficient filtration to prevent stress-related illnesses and maintain optimal health.

Behavior:

• Territorial Behavior: Red Severums may exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding periods. Ensure ample space and hiding spots to minimize aggression.
• Community Interaction: Despite their territorial tendencies, Red Severums can thrive in community tanks, especially when provided with suitable tank mates and adequate space.

Breeding:

• Pair Bonding: Red Severums form strong pair bonds and engage in intricate courtship rituals before spawning.
• Substrate Spawning: They are substrate spawners, with the female laying eggs on a flat surface while the male fertilizes them and guards the nest.

Challenges:

• Aggression: While generally peaceful, Red Severums may display aggression towards conspecifics or other fish during breeding or territorial disputes. Monitor tank dynamics and intervene if aggression becomes excessive.
• Dietary Variety: Ensure a diverse diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies and promote overall health and coloration in Red Severums.