Severum: Gentle Giant with Stunning Golden Hues

South America’s Golden Cichlid

The Severum, Heros efasciatus, is one of those fish that immediately makes you stop and appreciate the calm beauty of freshwater aquariums. Native to the slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and tributaries of the Amazon Basin, this cichlid has evolved to thrive in warm, gently flowing waters with abundant vegetation and shaded areas. Unlike the feisty Green Terror or the assertive Jack Dempsey, Severums carry themselves with a serene, almost regal demeanor, making them favorites among aquarists who want a large but peaceful centerpiece.

FISH PROFILE
Fish:	Severum
Binomial Name:	Heros efasciatus
SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Actinopterygii
Order:	Perciformes
Family:	Cichlidae
Subfamily:	Cichlasomatinae
Genus:	Heros
Species:	H. efasciatus
Varieties:	Green Severum, Gold Severum, Red-Spotted Severum, Super Red Severum
ENVIRONMENT
Living Environment:	Freshwater
Found in:	Amazon Basin, including Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador
Space Requirement:	55 gallons (208 liters) minimum for a single adult; larger tanks for pairs or communities
Average Lifespan:	8–10 years
Exceptional Cases:	Up to 15 years with excellent care
Length:	6–8 inches (15–20 cm), up to 10 inches (25 cm) in large males
Weight:	Up to 0.9 kg (2 lbs)
Temperature:	24–28°C (75–82°F)
pH:	6.0–7.5
PERSONALITY
Temperament:	Semi-aggressive, peaceful when young but territorial as adults
Social Behaviour:	Can be kept in pairs or small groups; compatible with similarly sized peaceful cichlids
Diet:	Omnivore
Food Type:	Pellets, flakes, frozen foods, live foods, blanched vegetables
KEY FACTORS AFFECTING LIFESPAN
Enclosure / Tank size:	Spacious tank with good swimming room and hiding areas; overcrowding leads to aggression
Habitat / Water quality:	Prefers clean, soft, slightly acidic water; weekly water changes essential
Diet:	Varied diet with high-quality pellets and fresh foods maintains color and health
Companions:	Best kept with medium to large, calm fish; avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species
Temperature / Environment stability:	Stable water temperature and parameters crucial; fluctuations can stress the fish
CARE DIFFICULTY
Difficulty Level:	Moderate
Messiness:	Moderate; tends to disturb substrate and produce waste, regular maintenance needed
Additional Requirements:	Strong filtration, stable temperature, hiding places, and open swimming areas
Special Notes:	Intelligent and personable fish that recognizes its keeper; enjoys a planted or decorated tank

Observing a Severum in your tank is surprisingly soothing. They glide gracefully through open swimming spaces, their golden, bronze, or slightly greenish hues catching the light in a way that almost seems to glow. Males and females look similar, though subtle differences in size and fin shape emerge as they mature. Vertical stripes on their bodies can fade or become more prominent depending on mood, lighting, or environmental changes, adding a dynamic visual element to their presence. Unlike smaller, fast-moving species like Neon Tetras, a Severum draws your eye slowly, commanding attention not with frantic energy but with elegant composure.

Personality is where Severums really shine. They are curious but not aggressive, intelligent without being overbearing. They often recognize their owners, swimming toward the glass when approached or following a finger along the tank, much like Oscars or Jack Dempseys, but with a gentler style. Their interaction is playful in a subtle way: inspecting new decorations, nudging floating toys, or occasionally chasing tankmates—but never with the relentless dominance of more aggressive cichlids. Watching a Severum explore its environment can feel like witnessing a miniature, golden sentinel surveying its domain.

Territorial instincts are present but manageable. While they may claim a favorite rock or hiding spot, their assertions are usually mild and brief. You won’t see the sustained aggression of a Green Terror or a Convict Cichlid; instead, it’s more like a polite warning: “This is mine, but I’m willing to coexist.” This makes them ideal for community tanks with other peaceful or semi-aggressive cichlids that can match their size and temperament without being bullied. Some aquarists have even successfully housed Severums with Angelfish, larger Tetras, or peaceful catfish, creating a vibrant, multi-species display.

For beginner or intermediate aquarists, Severums offer a rare combination: the elegance of a large cichlid without the constant challenges of high aggression. They demand care and space, yes, but they reward you with beauty, calm intelligence, and personality. Unlike high-energy, attention-seeking species, they invite observation, reflection, and appreciation.

Their calm nature also makes them fascinating during feeding or interaction. While they are omnivorous, their approach to food is deliberate, measured, and sometimes surprisingly clever. You might notice a Severum gently nudging a pellet, inspecting it, or flipping a small piece of vegetation, demonstrating awareness and problem-solving tendencies that make them feel almost interactive rather than simply instinct-driven. In this sense, they are similar to Oscars in their ability to connect with their keepers—but without the fiery attitude that can intimidate a beginner.

Ultimately, the Severum is a gentle giant in the aquarium world. Its golden hues, flowing fins, and serene presence create a peaceful yet striking centerpiece, while its intelligence and curiosity keep you engaged and invested in its well-being. Whether admired from across the room or observed closely during feeding, a Severum has a way of becoming more than just a fish—it becomes a companion, a living jewel that adds life, color, and calm energy to your aquarium.

Appearance and Personality

The Severum, often called the “poor man’s discus,” blends impressive size with a tranquil nature, making it both elegant and approachable. Its appearance varies by type and environment, but every Severum shares a certain golden warmth that stands out in any aquarium.

Physical Appearance

A healthy adult Severum reaches 7 to 8 inches in length, with a tall, laterally compressed body that gives it a distinct disk-like profile. This rounded shape enhances its graceful swimming motion, allowing it to glide effortlessly through the water.

Coloration is where Severums truly shine. Depending on the variety, you might encounter hues that range from pale gold and green to rich red or turquoise. The Gold Severum displays brilliant yellow-gold tones with subtle orange markings, while the Green Severum features olive and bronze shades with faint vertical stripes. Selective breeding has also produced Red Spotted Severums, known for their vibrant speckles and deeper coloration.

Their eyes are expressive—large, often ringed with orange or red—and contribute to their intelligent, almost sentient appearance. During breeding or displays of dominance, colors may intensify, with deeper body stripes and darker facial tones. This ability to subtly shift coloration depending on mood or environment gives them a dynamic, living quality that aquarists find mesmerizing.

Personality and Behavior

Despite their imposing size, Severums are gentle by cichlid standards. They are inquisitive fish that enjoy exploring every part of their environment, often rearranging gravel or moving plants to suit their preferences. While they can be territorial, their disputes are usually brief and involve posturing rather than physical harm.

Severums are known to form bonds with their keepers. Many aquarists report that their fish recognize them and swim to the front of the tank during feeding or interaction. This social behavior adds a layer of connection uncommon in most aquarium species.

They are also slow, deliberate feeders, which helps when keeping them with smaller or more timid tankmates. However, during spawning, even the calm Severum becomes more protective. They guard their eggs diligently and may chase away intruders, but this aggression fades once the fry are independent.

Color Variants

Several Severum color forms exist today, each offering its own visual appeal:

Gold Severum: Bright yellow body with orange-tinged fins and a radiant sheen.
Green Severum: Natural olive-green tones with soft vertical bands.
Red Spotted Severum: Speckled body with vivid red and orange dots.
Rotkeil (Red Shoulder) Severum: Greenish body with striking red patches near the gills.

Each variety keeps the same easygoing temperament, making them interchangeable from a behavioral perspective.

Personality at a Glance

Calm and social for a cichlid
Curious about surroundings and owner activity
Can be kept with similar-sized peaceful fish
Occasionally territorial during breeding
Intelligent and interactive—often learns routines and feeding cues

The Severum’s combination of size, intelligence, and serenity makes it ideal for aquarists who want a centerpiece fish without constant aggression. Its balance of grace and calm energy creates harmony in the tank—something both new and experienced keepers appreciate.

Tank Requirements

When you first see a Severum, with its slow, deliberate movements and calm expression, you might assume it’s content in any setup. But don’t be fooled—this gentle giant thrives best when its environment mirrors the calm, warm waters of its South American homeland. Creating that balance is key to unlocking its full color, behavior, and personality.

Tank Size and Setup

Let’s start with space. A single adult Severum needs at least 55 gallons, though 75 gallons or more gives it room to swim freely and claim a territory. These fish aren’t frantic swimmers, but they appreciate open mid-level space to glide gracefully. A pair or community setup? Then think 90–125 gallons minimum. When they’re crowded, Severums grow stressed and territorial—something every aquarist wants to avoid.

Water Parameters

Severums come from slow-moving rivers and floodplains in the Amazon Basin. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with consistent warmth. Stability matters more than chasing perfect numbers.

Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: 3–12 dGH
Flow: Gentle to moderate; avoid strong currents

A reliable heater is nonnegotiable. These fish feel sluggish and prone to disease when temperatures drop below 24°C. Pair the heater with a quality canister filter, because Severums—like most cichlids—are messy eaters. Their love for digging and vegetable foods means plenty of debris ends up in the substrate.

Substrate and Decor

If you’ve kept cichlids like the Jack Dempsey or Firemouth Cichlid, you know they like to rearrange the tank. The Severum is no exception. Choose a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate so they can sift and dig without damaging their mouths.

Decor should offer both open swimming areas and quiet retreats. Large pieces of driftwood, smooth stones, and hardy plants like Anubias, Java fern, or Amazon sword mimic their natural environment. Keep plants either well-anchored or potted—Severums sometimes uproot them out of curiosity.

Lighting should be soft and warm. Too-bright light can wash out their colors and make them skittish. A few floating plants like water lettuce or Amazon frogbit can diffuse light beautifully and create a serene atmosphere.

Filtration and Maintenance

Because Severums produce substantial waste, filtration capacity should exceed the tank’s listed volume. Aim for a turnover rate of at least 5–7 times per hour. A canister filter paired with a sponge pre-filter keeps the water clear while protecting fry or smaller tankmates from being sucked in.

Regular maintenance is essential:

Perform 25–30% water changes weekly
Vacuum substrate to remove uneaten food
Rinse filter media in tank water (not tap water) monthly

These routines don’t just keep nitrate levels low—they also prevent the subtle stress that can dull a Severum’s color and vitality.

Aquascaping Tips

If you want to see your Severum at its most expressive, build an environment that encourages exploration:

Add branching driftwood to create shaded zones.
Use broad-leaf plants they can rest under.
Leave a few open paths for swimming.
Provide flat stones for breeding pairs.

Think of the setup as a balance between jungle and open river—structured, but not cluttered.

Summary of Key Tank Requirements

Minimum tank size: 55 gallons (75+ for pairs)
Temperature: 25–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: 3–12 dGH
Gentle water flow
Sandy substrate, driftwood, plants
Weekly water changes (25–30%)

When you get the environment right, Severums respond with brighter color, calm confidence, and fascinating social behavior. They’ll explore every inch of their world, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see them form gentle bonds with tankmates—or even you.

Diet and Feeding – What Fuels the Golden Giant

Feeding a Severum is like cooking for a polite but curious guest. They’ll try almost anything, and they tend to savor it, not snatch it. Watching a mature Severum eat—slow, deliberate, and graceful—is a reminder that this fish isn’t in a rush. But don’t mistake gentleness for low maintenance. Their diet shapes everything: color, mood, energy, and even how well they get along with tankmates.

Natural Diet in the Wild

In their native Amazon Basin, Severums are omnivores with a plant-heavy bias. They browse through vegetation, pick at algae, and snap up small insects or crustaceans drifting by. Think of them as underwater grazers with a taste for protein. This variety keeps them balanced and helps them maintain that golden sheen they’re known for.

Ideal Daily Diet in the Aquarium

A balanced aquarium diet should mimic that diversity. You’ll want to mix both plant and protein sources across the week. Here’s a reliable plan for a healthy, vibrant Severum:

High-quality pellets or flakes: Choose those formulated for omnivorous cichlids.
Vegetables: Offer blanched spinach, zucchini, peas (shelled), or lettuce.
Protein treats: Include bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill, or chopped earthworms.
Algae-based foods: Spirulina flakes or wafers enhance color and boost immunity.

Feed twice daily, in small portions they can finish within 2–3 minutes. Overfeeding leads to clouded water, excess waste, and fatty liver disease—common in larger, sedentary cichlids.

Occasional Treats

Severums love a bit of variety. Every few days, toss in a treat that keeps feeding time exciting:

Frozen or live daphnia for enrichment
Fresh fruit like small bits of melon or cucumber for vitamins
Homemade gel foods (a mix of veggies, shrimp, and vitamins blended and frozen)

The occasional change in texture and flavor triggers curiosity and natural foraging behavior.

Foods to Avoid

Even though Severums aren’t picky, certain foods can cause trouble:

Fatty meats like beef heart or chicken (too rich for digestion)
Processed human foods
Live feeder fish (risk of disease and unnecessary aggression)
Overly high-protein diets—these can dull coloration and stress their system over time

If you’ve kept Oscars or Green Terrors, you might be used to their aggressive, carnivorous appetites. Severums, on the other hand, thrive with moderation and greens. Too much animal protein, and you’ll start to see bloating or even behavioral changes.

Enhancing Color Naturally

That radiant gold and soft green shimmer doesn’t come from luck—it’s all about diet. Foods rich in carotenoids and spirulina intensify yellows and oranges, while leafy greens boost overall tone and immune strength. Some aquarists even add crushed paprika or sweet potato puree into homemade mixes for an extra color kick.

Feeding and Behavior

Severums recognize routine. Feed them at the same times each day, and you’ll notice they begin waiting at the glass as you approach. They’re surprisingly gentle feeders compared to rowdy cichlids like Jack Dempseys or Convict Cichlids. Still, in a mixed tank, feed them first—more aggressive fish can outcompete them.

When feeding a group, scatter food across different areas. This gives everyone a chance and prevents unnecessary competition.

Sample Weekly Feeding Schedule

Day	Food Type	Example
Monday	Pellet base	Spirulina or cichlid pellets
Tuesday	Veggie meal	Blanched peas and spinach
Wednesday	Protein day	Bloodworms or brine shrimp
Thursday	Pellet base	Mixed omnivore pellets
Friday	Veggie meal	Zucchini slices or lettuce
Saturday	Treat day	Fruit slice or daphnia
Sunday	Light fast	Skip feeding for digestion

That one-day fast gives their digestive system a reset, reducing bloating and keeping water clean.

The Joy of Feeding Time

Watching a Severum eat is more interactive than you’d expect. They’ll follow your hand, even nibble near the surface. It’s one of those quiet aquarium moments that make the hobby feel alive—a reminder that these fish aren’t just ornaments but curious, responsive animals.

Get the feeding right, and your Severum will glow like molten gold. They’ll move with confidence, show richer color, and live longer, healthier lives.

Tankmates and Compatibility – Friends or Foes?

The Severum might be one of the calmest cichlids out there, but don’t let that fool you into thinking they’ll get along with everyone. They’re gentle, yes, but they still have that classic cichlid edge—curiosity mixed with authority. When choosing tankmates for your Severum, it’s not just about size; it’s about temperament, space, and how each fish expresses dominance.

Severums are semi-aggressive, meaning they can swing from peaceful to territorial depending on mood, maturity, and breeding phase. They’re naturally tolerant of similar-sized tankmates but can become assertive when defending their favorite territory or partner. Think of them as calm housemates who appreciate personal space and predictable neighbors.

When kept alone or in pairs, Severums tend to be relaxed. In community tanks, though, hierarchy matters. They often take on a “gentle leader” role—unbothered by most but quick to correct intrusions.

Ideal Tankmates

To maintain harmony, pair your Severum with fish that share similar size and temperament. The key is balance—no overly shy species that might get bullied, and no overly aggressive tankmates that’ll provoke your Severum into defense mode.

Here’s a solid list of compatible companions:

Angelfish – Graceful and similar in temperament.
Silver Dollars – Peaceful, active schooling fish that fill upper levels.
Geophagus species – Calm, bottom-dwelling cichlids that sift sand instead of fighting.
Plecos (Bristlenose or Common) – Excellent cleanup crew, ignored by Severums.
Rainbowfish – Fast-moving, colorful, and generally too quick to bother.
Congo Tetras – Peaceful mid-level swimmers with stunning color contrast.

A well-sized Severum tank feels balanced when movement is spread across levels—surface swimmers, mid-level companions, and calm bottom feeders.

Tankmates to Avoid

Some species spell trouble from the start. You’ll want to avoid:

Overly aggressive cichlids like Jack Dempseys, Green Terrors, or Midas Cichlids
Tiny or timid fish such as Neon Tetras or Guppies (they’ll become snacks)
Fin-nippers like Tiger Barbs that will harass your Severum’s flowing fins
Competing centerpiece fish, like Oscars, which may outgrow and intimidate them

A good rule: if a fish’s personality or mouth size makes you hesitate, skip it. The goal is a balanced ecosystem, not a power struggle.

Male vs. Female Dynamics

Keeping multiple Severums works if you manage space and gender ratios properly. A bonded pair tends to coexist peacefully, especially in larger tanks over 75 gallons. Two males, though, can clash as they mature, particularly if one feels dominant. Provide sight breaks—plants, driftwood, or rockwork—so they can retreat when tensions rise.

You’ll also see fascinating social behavior when Severums interact. They communicate through body posturing—flaring fins, lateral displays, even subtle color shifts. These displays rarely escalate if everyone has enough room.

Tips for Peaceful Coexistence

Tank size matters. A Severum community should start at 75 gallons minimum.
Decorate strategically. Use rocks and driftwood to define territories.
Avoid overcrowding. Less is more; give each fish space to claim.
Watch for breeding aggression. Even gentle Severums get feisty when guarding eggs.
Feed evenly. Competition over food sparks most scuffles.

A Balanced Community Example

A 90-gallon setup could comfortably host:

1 pair of Severums
4–5 Silver Dollars
1 Pleco
6 Rainbowfish
3–4 Geophagus

This mix provides color, diversity, and movement—without chaos.

Observing Compatibility

You’ll notice your Severum setting the tone of the tank. When they’re calm, the whole aquarium feels relaxed. If they become moody, others follow suit. That’s the charm (and challenge) of keeping intelligent cichlids: they influence the energy of the entire environment.

It’s that subtle leadership that makes them so fascinating to keep. You’re not just managing a tank—you’re curating a little underwater society.

Breeding Behavior – From Courtship to Parenthood

If you’ve ever wanted to witness real fish devotion, watch a pair of Severums raise their young. They’re attentive, surprisingly gentle parents—protective without being reckless. Breeding them isn’t difficult, but it does require patience and a bit of intuition. Once they pair off, you’ll see a different side of this calm, golden giant.

The Mating Dance

It starts subtly. You’ll notice two Severums spending more time together, cleaning surfaces, and chasing away others—but not violently. Then comes the color change. Their hues deepen, stripes darken, and fins flare with energy. The male Severum typically becomes brighter and develops slight nuchal thickening on his forehead, while the female shows a rounder belly and slightly smaller size.

Their courtship ritual is beautiful to watch. They’ll mirror each other, circle, and gently nip in rhythmic motions. It’s not aggression—it’s communication. Think of it as a carefully choreographed dance where each gesture builds trust.

Preparing the Breeding Setup

While Severums can spawn in a community tank, it’s better to give them a dedicated breeding aquarium, at least 50 gallons for a pair. This helps reduce stress and gives the fry a real chance at survival.

Here’s what the setup should include:

Flat spawning surfaces: Smooth stones, slate tiles, or broad leaves.
Stable water conditions: pH around 6.0–6.5, temperature 27–29°C (80–84°F).
Soft, clean water: Slightly acidic and well-filtered water encourages spawning.
Dim lighting: Mimics their natural river environment and reduces anxiety.

Condition the pair for a few weeks beforehand with a rich diet—bloodworms, brine shrimp, and spirulina flakes will do wonders.

Spawning and Egg Care

When ready, the female lays hundreds of adhesive eggs on a cleaned surface, while the male follows to fertilize them. Both parents take turns fanning the eggs, keeping them free of fungus and debris. It’s not unusual for them to move the eggs several times, especially if they sense danger or instability.

Eggs typically hatch within 2–3 days, depending on temperature. During this time, you’ll see the parents hovering protectively nearby, gently mouthing debris away. Once the fry hatch, they remain attached to the surface for a few days, absorbing their yolk sacs before becoming free swimmers.

Raising the Fry

Once the fry start moving independently (around day five or six), both parents become true caretakers. They’ll herd the fry into safe zones, often creating small “nursery areas” around plants or rocks. The fry can be fed:

Infusoria or liquid fry food for the first few days
Baby brine shrimp as they grow
Finely crushed flakes or micro pellets after a week or so

It’s best to remove other fish from the tank during this period. Even calm species can’t resist an easy snack.

Parental Behavior

Severum parents show remarkable cooperation. They take shifts guarding the brood, and when a fry drifts too far, the parent will gently suck it into their mouth and spit it back toward the group. It’s tender and deliberate—almost mammalian in care.

Still, first-time parents sometimes eat their eggs or fry. This is usually due to stress, overcrowding, or sudden light changes. Don’t lose heart; once they’ve had a few attempts, they often become excellent parents.

Signs of Successful Pairing

You can tell you’ve got a stable breeding pair if you see:

Consistent cleaning of a specific area or object
Reduced aggression toward each other
Coordinated guarding behavior
Bright, intensified coloration

Fun Fact

The Severum’s parental instincts are part of what makes them such engaging pets. Even outside breeding, they display protective behavior—guarding their territory gently but firmly, especially if they’ve bonded with a tankmate or specific area.

A Peaceful Parenthood

Compared to more volatile cichlids like the Green Terror or Oscar, Severums bring a refreshing calm to breeding. They’re patient and deliberate, not destructive. Watching a pair care for their fry is one of those experiences that reminds you why you keep fish in the first place—it’s nature condensed into a glass world, running perfectly on instinct.

Why the Severum Deserves a Place in Your Aquarium

There’s something quietly regal about the Severum. It doesn’t flash around the tank like a hyperactive Tetra or puff itself up like a Green Terror. Instead, it glides—measured, observant, always aware. For aquarists who appreciate subtlety and personality, the Severum is a perfect fit.

It’s a fish that bridges two worlds: the boldness of South American cichlids and the serenity of community dwellers. You get the intelligence, the emotion, the interaction—but without the chaos that often comes with larger, more aggressive species like the Oscar or Jack Dempsey. The Severum brings presence without dominance.

The Allure of Personality

What makes the Severum so special isn’t just its looks, though that golden shimmer never gets old. It’s how it engages with you. These fish recognize faces, follow your movements, and often “beg” for food at the glass like a wet, scaly dog. You don’t just watch them—you share moments.

Over time, you’ll notice they have moods. Some days they’ll spend hours rearranging the substrate or hovering near a favorite rock; other days, they’ll shadow you around the tank. That spark of recognition, that glint in their eye, is what separates them from so many ornamental species.

A Fish for the Balanced Aquarist

Keeping a Severum isn’t about filling an empty tank—it’s about building a relationship. They reward consistency: stable water, good food, calm surroundings. In return, you get a fish that displays genuine behavior and stunning color every single day.

They fit well in diverse aquariums, alongside compatible species like Angelfish, Silver Dollars, or Geophagus. They’re big enough to be the centerpiece but calm enough not to dominate. Whether you’re a seasoned keeper or just stepping up from smaller community setups, the Severum makes that next step rewarding.

Why They Stand Out

If you’ve kept more boisterous species—Oscars flinging gravel, or Green Terrors staking territories—you’ll find the Severum refreshingly composed. It’s a fish that carries itself with quiet confidence. Even its movements are graceful, almost meditative.

And yet, it’s not dull. The moment food hits the water or another fish crosses an invisible boundary, that cichlid fire flickers to life. It’s this balance—between grace and assertiveness—that makes them endlessly fascinating.

A Living Centerpiece

In the right setup, a mature Severum glows like liquid gold under soft lighting. Paired with lush green plants, dark driftwood, and a few shimmering tankmates, it becomes the beating heart of the aquarium. Every visitor will notice it, but only you’ll understand its subtle personality—the moods, the habits, the small quirks that make it feel almost like a companion.

Final Thoughts

If you’re drawn to fish with depth, the Severum won’t disappoint. It’s beautiful, intelligent, and emotionally engaging in ways you don’t expect until you’ve kept one. They’re proof that not every cichlid has to rule with aggression—some lead with calm confidence.

So if you’re ready for a fish that’ll recognize you, surprise you, and quietly dominate your attention without ever needing to show off—the Severum is waiting.