Rotkeil Severum (Heros sp.)
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 20cm
Temp: 23-29°C
PH: 6.0 - 7.5
Approximate purchase size: 4-5cm
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Community with caution
The Rotkeil Severum is a lovely cichlid for larger community aquariums. They are a fairly peaceful fish that grows to a pretty substantial size and tend to be very beginner friendly. The aquarium does need to be large as these fish can grow up to 20cm long and produce a lot of waste. Water should be neutral or soft and acidic. The addition of bog wood and rocks will be welcomed as it helps the severums determine territories within the aquarium as well as find stimulation whilst exploring. Plants are not recommended as they are known for enjoying a bit of roughage in their diet and will most likely shred plants. Some keepers have been successful with Anubias, Gian Vallis and some of the coarser Cryptocorines, but it isn't a guarantee that your fish won't eat them. Artificial plants can however be a great addition as it provides visual barriers between quarreling cichlids and hiding places for any fish that may need some time out.
The severums are for the most part quite peaceful and can be kept with community fish, but small species like smaller tetra and rasboras should be avoided as they may get eaten. Ideal tank mates can include Congo Tetras, Denison Barbs, other larger peaceful and semi agressive Cichlids, snakeheads, various catfish like corydoras and bristlenose and Rainbowfish.
Food can be offered in the form of cichlid pellets as well as fresh or frozen fish foods.
If you have any questions about keeping these fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.
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