Severum

Looks how to spot one

Large, disc-shaped cichlid

A tall, laterally flattened cichlid with a rounded outline. Males grow larger, carry markings on the gill covers, a small head hump and longer fin tips.2

Personality what they are like

Generally easygoing outside breeding time and suits a calm South American community; keeping a few together tends to keep the mood relaxed.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A steady, unhurried swimmer that likes calm, deep water with roots and branches to cruise around.21

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Undemanding; keep good filtration, change water regularly and offer some greens in the diet.2

Home where they are happiest

Warm water of about 22 to 29 C (FishBase gives up to 32 C), soft to medium, slightly acidic to neutral; a tank of at least 120 x 45 x 45 cm (about 240 litres).21

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Omnivore that leans towards plant food: quality dried foods, bloodworm, earthworm and prawn, plus blanched spinach and spirulina-based foods.21

Company who they like around

Does best in a small group so pairs can form naturally; good with other peaceful, medium to large South American fish.2

The story where it all began

Johann Jakob Heckel described the species in 1840. It is a long-standing aquarium favourite, now often sold in its gold colour form as well as the wild olive-green look.13

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Least Concern (assessed 19 November 2020)1

Taxonomy

Described by Heckel in 1840; family Cichlidae1