Super Red Spotted Severum

The Super Red Spotted Severum (Heros efasciatus "Super Red Spotted") is a selectively bred variant of the Severum cichlid, prized for its intense red coloration and distinct spotted pattern. It is a peaceful to semi-aggressive cichlid that thrives in well-maintained aquariums with ample swimming space.

Maximum Size:

• Typically grows up to 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in captivity.

Native Region:

• The wild-type Severum is native to South America, mainly in the Amazon River basin, including Brazil, Peru, and Venezuela.
• The Super Red Spotted variant is a selectively bred aquarium strain and is not found in the wild.

Diet (Carnivorous or Omnivorous?):

• Omnivorous, with a preference for both plant-based and protein-rich foods.
• In captivity, they thrive on:
  ✅ High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
  ✅ Frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms)
  ✅ Vegetables (blanched zucchini, spinach, peas)

Lifespan:

• Typically 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Breeding Season & Behavior:

• Breeding Type: Egg-layer and biparental care
• Breeding can occur year-round in captivity if conditions are ideal (warm water, clean environment, and a high-quality diet).
• The female lays eggs on a flat surface (rock, driftwood, or glass), and both parents guard the eggs and fry.
• They become more territorial during breeding but are generally good parents.

Best Tank Mates:

Super Red Spotted Severums are semi-peaceful cichlids, so they do well with:

✅ Other peaceful to mildly aggressive cichlids (Uaru, Geophagus, Festivums, Angelfish)
✅ Larger schooling fish (Silver Dollars, Congo Tetras, Denison Barbs)
✅ Bottom dwellers (Plecos, Corydoras, Hoplo Catfish)

🚫 Avoid:

• Highly aggressive cichlids (Oscars, Flowerhorns, Jack Dempseys, Green Terrors)
• Small fish that can be seen as food, like Neon Tetras.

Ideal Tank Conditions:

• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum, but 125+ gallons is ideal for a pair.
• Temperature: 76-84°F (24-29°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard.
• Décor: Include driftwood, large rocks, and live plants (such as Amazon Swords) for shelter.
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.