Banded Cichlid

Heros severus, the Banded Cichlid or Severum, is native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in northern South America, including Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana, and northern Brazil. It inhabits a range of habitats from soft, acidic blackwater rivers to clearer whitewater systems, and is notably adaptable compared to many Amazonian cichlids.

The Banded Cichlid is a large, laterally compressed species with a rounded disc-like body profile. Wild-type adults display seven or eight dark vertical bands over a greenish-gold body, with reddish-brown facial markings on mature males. A prominent black spot is often present on the dorsal fin base. The species shows considerable variation across its range, and several geographical colour forms exist.

Heros severus is predominantly herbivorous in the wild, feeding on plant material, algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, it will graze on live plants and should be provided with regular vegetable-based food supplements. Despite this plant-eating tendency, it can be kept in planted aquariums with robust, inedible species such as large Anubias attached to rock or wood.

The Banded Cichlid is considered semi-aggressive; it holds its own against other large cichlids but is not as aggressive as species like Oscars or Jack Dempseys. It is a popular aquarium fish due to its impressive size, attractive patterning, and relative ease of care.

Tank Setup A minimum 200-liter tank is needed for one adult Banded Cichlid; pairs or groups require at least 350 liters. Use smooth gravel or sand substrate and provide driftwood, large rocks, and robust plants like Anubias or Java fern attached to hardscape — free-planted species will be eaten or uprooted. A tight-fitting lid is advisable as Banded Cichlids can jump.

Water Parameters Maintain temperature 24–30°C, pH 5.5–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. Banded Cichlids are adaptable to a wide range of water conditions. Perform weekly water changes of 25–30%. A reliable canister filter is recommended to manage their moderate-to-heavy bioload.

Feeding Primarily herbivorous; offer spirulina-based cichlid pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas), and algae wafers as the dietary staple. Supplement with high-quality omnivore pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp for protein. Feed twice daily and remove uneaten food promptly. A plant-rich diet reduces aggression and maintains digestive health.

Tankmates Semi-aggressive; compatible with similarly sized robust cichlids such as Festivums, Chocolate Cichlids, large Geophagus, Severums, and large Plecos. Avoid very small fish, which will be harassed. In large tanks, multiple Banded Cichlids can coexist provided ample space and visual barriers are available.

Breeding Biparental open spawners. A bonded pair will clean a flat surface and deposit several hundred eggs. Both parents vigorously defend eggs and fry. Spawning pairs may become aggressive toward other tankmates during this period; remove other fish if aggression escalates. Fry are relatively easy to raise on baby brine shrimp and crushed flake.