Red Spotted Severum

They are about 2.5” in size

🐟 Quick Summary Guide: Red Spotted Severum

Scientific name: Heros severus (selectively bred color morph)
Common names: Red Spotted Severum, Super Red Severum, Red Severum

🔹 Basics

• Adult size: 7–8 inches (18–20 cm)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; generally peaceful for a cichlid, but can be territorial

• Tank level: Mid to upper

🏠 Tank Requirements

• Tank size: Minimum 55 gallons (larger preferred for pairs or tankmates)

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves for hiding; sturdy plants (may nibble on softer ones)

• Lighting: Moderate

🌡️ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–15 dGH)

• Filtration: Strong and clean — they produce a fair amount of waste

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivore

• Foods: High-quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and vegetables (peas, spinach, zucchini)

• Feeding frequency: 1–2 times daily, small portions

🤝 Tankmates

• Compatible with: Peaceful to semi-aggressive medium/large fish (silver dollars, larger tetras, angelfish, plecos)

• Avoid: Fin nippers, tiny fish, or highly aggressive cichlids

🐣 Breeding

• Type: Substrate spawner; forms monogamous pairs

• Behavior: Parents guard eggs and fry; need flat surfaces for spawning

• Note: Hard to sex until mature — males often have more spots and pointed fins

🩺 Common Issues

• Hole-in-the-head (from poor water quality or nutrition)

• Overfeeding → obesity

• Aggression during breeding