Heros efasciatus Severum

Heros efasciatus is the most widespread and scientifically confirmed Amazonian severum species, distributed throughout the central and western Amazon basin. This species was historically confused with Heros severus, but is now recognised as the source of most captive-bred severum strains including the common green and gold aquarium varieties.

H. efasciatus displays a variable pattern of bold dark vertical bars on a greenish to olive body, with males developing elaborate blue-green worm-like facial markings when mature. Multiple wild colour morphs exist corresponding to different river drainages, and captive strains have been further developed through selective breeding.

Severums are among the most beginner-friendly of the large South American cichlids. They are robust, adaptable to a broad pH range, accepting of most foods, and relatively peaceful for their size — making them an excellent gateway fish into larger cichlid keeping.

Water: Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 2–12, KH 1–6; adaptable but performs best in soft to moderately hard water. Tank: 250 L minimum for a pair; robust filtration; provide large driftwood and hardy background plants (Java fern, Anubias). Feeding: Omnivore; quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, spirulina, and vegetable matter; feed 2 times daily. Breeding: Open spawner; pair cleans a flat surface and jointly guards eggs and wrigglers; fry are easy to raise. Compatibility: Peaceful with similarly sized fish; avoid keeping with small species or highly aggressive cichlids.