Red-Shoulder Severum Cichlid – A Beautiful and Peaceful Cichlid for Your Aquarium
 
The Red-Shoulder Severum Cichlid (Heros severus) is a stunning and vibrant freshwater fish known for its unique coloration and calm, peaceful nature. A variation of the traditional Severum Cichlid, the Red-Shoulder Severum is named for the brilliant red or orange hues that appear on the shoulder and upper body, contrasting beautifully with the green and gold tones across its body. Native to the rivers of South America, particularly in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, this cichlid is admired for both its beauty and relatively gentle disposition.
Red-Shoulder Severums are less aggressive than many other cichlid species, making them ideal for community tanks. They have a more laid-back and non-confrontational personality, which allows them to coexist peacefully with other fish that can tolerate their size and activity level. Their peaceful nature and vivid coloration make them a perfect centerpiece fish in a well-maintained tank.
 
Care Requirements:
Tank Size: Minimum of 55 gallons (208 liters) for a single Red-Shoulder Severum. A larger tank is recommended if you plan to keep multiple Severums or other large tankmates. Providing ample swimming space and territories is important to help reduce any territorial behavior.
Water Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a stable temperature.
Water pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5 - 7.5).
Water Hardness: Soft to medium (5-15 dGH).
Filtration: Moderate filtration is necessary to maintain clean, oxygenated water. While Red-Shoulder Severums are hardy, they still require good water quality. Regular water changes (at least 25% weekly) are recommended to ensure a healthy tank environment.
Diet: Omnivorous. These Severums are not picky eaters and will enjoy a varied diet. Provide high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms, and vegetable matter such as spinach, zucchini, and peas. A balanced diet will help keep them healthy and vibrant.
Tankmates: Peaceful to semi-aggressive. Red-Shoulder Severums are generally peaceful, though they can become territorial, particularly during breeding. They do well with other non-aggressive species such as larger tetras, peaceful catfish, and other medium-sized cichlids. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or very small fish that may become stressed.
Lighting: Moderate lighting. While not overly demanding on lighting, Red-Shoulder Severums will benefit from a well-lit tank to highlight their striking colors. Providing shaded areas and hiding spots is also beneficial for their sense of security.
Schooling: Red-Shoulder Severums are not schooling fish, but they do well in pairs or small groups. Keeping multiple Severums can reduce territorial aggression and encourage natural social behaviors. However, be sure to provide enough space to prevent disputes between tankmates.
Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots and areas for territorial behavior using caves, driftwood, and rocks. A fine sand or smooth gravel substrate is ideal, and live or artificial plants can enhance the aesthetic of the tank. Open swimming areas are essential to allow the Severum to swim freely.
Water Quality: Regular water changes and good filtration are crucial to maintaining optimal water conditions. Red-Shoulder Severums are sensitive to poor water quality, so keeping the tank clean and maintaining stable water parameters is key to their health.