Saltwater Aquarist

Red Shoulder Severum

(Heros efasciatus)

Red Shoulder Severum (Heros efasciatus) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Heros efasciatus
Common Name: Red Shoulder Severum
Species Group: Cichlid
Tank Type:
Care Level:
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet Type: Omnivore
Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish
Max Fish Length: (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 44 (gallons)
Native Range:
Min Temperature: °F
Max Temperature: °F
Min pH:
Max pH:
Min GH: dGH
Max GH: dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding:
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Red Shoulder Severum (Heros sp. “Rotkeil”) is a severum from Brazil with a red patch behind the gills. [UNVERIFIED] Its exact identity is unclear. It is often linked to Heros efasciatus.
  • Severums in general come from slow rivers and floodplain lakes of the Amazon.
  • Severums such as H. efasciatus can reach about 12 in (30 cm) standard length.

Feeding

  • Omnivorous and unfussy.
  • Feed quality dried foods plus bloodworm, chopped earthworms and shrimp.
  • Include some vegetable matter.

Habitat

  • A tank with a base of at least 48 × 18 in (120 × 45 cm).
  • River sand with driftwood branches.
  • Soft water: 72–84°F (22–29°C), pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–8. These figures are for H. efasciatus.

Fish Care

  • Hardy, but plan for its adult size.

Compatibility

  • Fairly calm for a large cichlid. Good with large, peaceful South American fish.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Mild-mannered except when spawning.
  • Some fish kept alone become nasty as they mature.

Breeding

  • Grow on a group of young fish and let a pair form.
  • Spawns on a flat stone. Both parents guard eggs and fry.