The Severum Cichlid
The Severum cichlid has become popular in pet trade as of late. These cichlids are very peaceful, although they may be too aggressive for a common community tank. They need to be kept with fish the same size as themselves.
These cichlids are also known as Banded Cichlids, and Hero Cichlids. There are two main colors of the Severum. The Gold Severum and the Green Severum. The Gold actually developed from the green Severum. The Green Severum is distinctive and has darker colored horizontal bands on the body where the Gold does not. Although rare, there are also blue variations of the Severum.
The Severum is a very beautiful fish, and it’s some what shy nature, makes it an ideal cichlid for your aquarium. This cichlid comes from the North Amazon region.
Aquarium Care: A tank of 55 gallons is ideal for a Severum. The average length of this cichlid is 8” but it is not un-common for the Severum to reach 12”. Severum aren’t as easily cared for as some other species of cichlids. The Severum is very sensitive to the water quality in their tank which means you must change your water frequently. Another must, is too check your water regularly for toxins. The nitrate level must be watched and kept to a minimum.
The filter must work effectively. Your tank should have open areas for swimming but also should have an adequate amount of hiding spots. Plants and upside-down flower pots are some good things that can provide your Severum with hiding. The recommended temperature is 72-83 degrees Fahrenheit with the Ph being between 5.0-6.5.
Feeding: Similar to that of other cichlids the Severum is carnivorous and does well on most foods. Cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen foods, green vegetables, and blood worms etc. are all good food for your Severum, brine shrimp is also a good feeding choice for your fish. The feeding of a Severum is probably the easiest element of taking care of them, they are not picky eaters.
Breeding: The Severums do not breed as readily as some other species of cichlids. Studies show the reasoning being that it is hard to distinguish between the male and female. It is best, if trying to breed, to put a male in the tank with several females. Like other cichlids, the Severum cichlids are egg layers and they prefer to spawn on a clean and horizontal surface.
