Heros efasciatus (Manacapuru)

Collected from the Rio Manacapuru near Manaus, Brazil, this locality form of Heros efasciatus is among the most vividly coloured severums in the hobby. The body transitions from a greenish-silver dorsal region to a blazing red-orange on the lower flanks and belly, with each scale catching light in a mosaic of gold and red. Like all severums, it is a peaceful giant that coexists well with other large South American species. Soft, warm, acidic water conditions maintain the best colouration.

Water: 24–30°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft (GH 2–10). Tank: Minimum 350L; large driftwood, broad-leaved plants, and dim lighting enhance colour. Feeding: Omnivore; spirulina pellets, cichlid pellets, cucumber, lettuce, and frozen bloodworm. Breeding: Forms monogamous pairs; spawns on flat surfaces; both parents guard fry attentively. Compatibility: Peaceful with other large cichlids; avoid housing with very aggressive species.