Heros liberifer (Yellow Form)

Heros liberifer is a severum species from western Amazonian tributaries, primarily associated with the Rio Ucayali drainage in Peru and adjacent areas. The yellow form is particularly sought-after in the hobby, displaying warm yellow to golden flanks with subtle banding that intensifies in breeding condition, overlaid with blue-green iridescent scaling on the upper body.

H. liberifer has been confused with other Heros species historically, but is now recognised as a distinct valid species with a restricted distribution. It is more rarely available than H. efasciatus or H. severus, making it of particular interest to severum collectors and South American cichlid enthusiasts.

Care for H. liberifer mirrors that of other large severum species. It is robust, omnivorous, and adapts well to aquarium life given appropriately large housing, good filtration, and a varied diet. It is moderately peaceful for its size when not in breeding condition.

Water: Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 2–10, KH 1–5; moderately soft water preferred; weekly partial water changes. Tank: 250 L minimum for a pair; provide driftwood, hardy plants, and clear territorial zones with rocks. Feeding: Omnivore; quality cichlid pellets, spirulina wafers, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp, blanched vegetables. Breeding: Open spawner; pair cleans a flat stone or leaf; biparental egg and fry guarding; soft water aids hatching. Compatibility: Keep with other large robust South American cichlids; unsuitable with small or delicate species.