Description
π Severum Red Spot Cichlid
π Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Heros severus (Red Spot Variant)
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Family: Cichlidae
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Origin: South America (Amazon River Basin, aquarium-bred strain)
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Size: 7 β 10 inches (18 β 25 cm)
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Lifespan: 8 β 10 years
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Tank Zone: Mid to Bottom
π Water Parameters
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TDS: 100 β 200 ppm
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pH: 6.0 β 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
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Temperature: 25 β 28Β°C (77 β 82Β°F)
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Hardness: 3 β 10 dGH
π Characteristics
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Striking golden to yellow body with bright red-orange spots all over the body and fins.
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Known as one of the most colorful Severum varieties.
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Peaceful temperament compared to other cichlids.
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Often called the βPoor Manβs Discusβ for its round shape and elegance.
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Intelligent and interactive with keepers.
π½οΈ Food
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Type: Omnivorous
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Diet: Quality cichlid pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, spirulina flakes, and blanched vegetables (spinach, peas, zucchini).
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Feeding: Twice daily in moderate portions.
π οΈ Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for a pair, 75+ gallons for community setups.
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Weekly Water Change: 25β30%.
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Tank setup: Fine gravel or sand, driftwood, smooth rocks, hardy plants.
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Strong filtration and steady water quality are important.
π₯ Social Behavior
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Minimum Group Size: Can be kept singly, in pairs, or peaceful groups.
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Tank Mates: Angelfish, Geophagus, Silver Dollars, Gouramis, Plecos, Corydoras, larger Tetras.
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Avoid: Aggressive fish (Oscars, Flowerhorns) or tiny fish (may get eaten).
β Doβs
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Provide natural hiding spaces with wood, rocks, and plants.
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Keep water clean and stable.
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Feed a balanced diet to bring out vibrant red coloration.
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Choose tank mates wisely β avoid very aggressive species.
β Donβts
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Donβt keep in small or overcrowded tanks.
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Donβt mix with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
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Donβt overfeed β prone to obesity.
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Donβt let water parameters fluctuate.
β Quick Tips
The Severum Red Spot Cichlid is one of the most beautiful Severum varieties.
Its bright red spots make it a centerpiece fish for community aquariums, especially South American setups.
Peaceful, hardy, and colorful β a great choice for medium to large aquariums




