Severum
Heros efasciatus
Cichlidae
About
The severum is a large, deep-bodied Amazonian cichlid often called a gentle giant for its calm temperament relative to its bulk. Native to slow, tannin-stained backwaters and flooded forest margins in Peru and Brazil, it grows tall and disc-shaped and makes a commanding centrepiece. Although generally mild-mannered, lone or breeding adults can turn territorial, and its large mouth means very small fish may be eaten.
Care
Give a single fish or a bonded pair a spacious 250 L+ tank with soft sand, driftwood and warm, soft-to-neutral water. Expect it to nibble and uproot soft plants, so use hardy Anubias or Java fern and choose robust, similarly sized tankmates.
Diet
Vegetarian-leaning omnivore that relishes plant and fruit matter; offer cichlid pellets, blanched vegetables and spirulina with occasional meaty foods. It will graze on and dig up soft aquarium plants.
Tankmate compatibility
Possible with care (100)
Avoid (21)
Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.