Green Severum (Heros efasciatus)

Description:
The Green Severum is a popular South American cichlid known for its round, laterally compressed body and olive-green coloration with faint vertical barring. Juveniles often have brighter markings that become more subtle as they mature. These peaceful yet bold cichlids are often chosen for community cichlid tanks due to their manageable size and calm temperament.

Size:
Up to 8 inches (20 cm)

Aquarium Size:
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a single adult, while a larger tank (75+ gallons) is necessary for pairs or community setups.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C)

• pH: 6.0 to 7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderate

Temperament:
Green Severums are generally peaceful for a cichlid of their size but can become territorial, especially during breeding. They do well in calm community setups with appropriately sized tankmates.

Group Size:
Best kept singly, as a bonded pair, or in a large enough tank with other similarly sized cichlids.

Compatibility:
Green Severums can be housed with other peaceful to semi-aggressive cichlids like Uaru, Geophagus species, and larger tetras or rainbowfish. Avoid housing them with very small fish, as they might be mistaken for food.

Diet:
Omnivorous. They accept a wide range of foods, including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach.

Care Level:
Intermediate. While hardy, they require stable water quality and spacious aquariums for long-term health.

Planted Aquarium:
Green Severums can be kept in planted aquariums but may nip or uproot delicate plants. Use hardy plants like Anubias, Java Fern, and plants attached to driftwood for best results.

Invertebrate Compatibility:
Not suitable for tanks with small invertebrates such as shrimp or snails, as they may be consumed.

Additional Notes:
Green Severums are intelligent fish that often recognize their owners and can be hand-fed with proper care. They are known for their calm nature but can be territorial during breeding.

Disclaimer:
Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.