Severum Care Guide
The Severum (Heros efasciatus and related Heros species) is a large and colourful South American cichlid popular among UK aquarists. Known for its disc-shaped body, intelligent behaviour, and relatively peaceful nature, it is often considered a more community-friendly alternative to Oscars and other large cichlids.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Severum care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Severums
Severums are large cichlids native to slow-moving rivers and floodplains within the Amazon Basin. Popular varieties include Green Severums, Gold Severums, Red-Spotted Severums, and Turquoise Severums.
They are intelligent fish that quickly recognise their owners and display plenty of personality.
Heros efasciatus (and related Heros species)
20-30 cm
South America (Amazon Basin)
250L (65gal)
10-15 years
Peaceful to semi-aggressive
24-29°C
Omnivore (pellets, vegetables, frozen foods)
6.0-7.5
£15-£80+ depending on variety and size
How Many Severums Should You Keep?
Severums can be kept singly, as pairs, or in carefully managed groups in large aquariums.
- Single fish work well as centrepiece specimens
- Bonded pairs thrive in spacious tanks
- Multiple severums require significant territory and filtration
Keeping too many fish in limited space can lead to:
- Territorial disputes
- Stress and aggression
- Reduced growth and health
They are generally less aggressive than many similarly sized cichlids.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Severums
Providing the right environment helps severums display natural behaviour and strong colouration.
- Tank Setup: Large aquarium with open swimming space and territorial areas
- Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
- Plants & Decor: Driftwood, rocks, sturdy plants, and caves
- Water Conditions: Warm, clean freshwater with stable parameters
- Filtration & Flow: Strong filtration with moderate water movement
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
Severums may nibble soft-leaved plants, so hardy species are recommended.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Severums are among the more peaceful large cichlids and can work well in spacious community aquariums.
- Good Tankmates: geophagus cichlids, silver dollars, larger rainbowfish, plecos, peaceful catfish, and larger tetras
- Avoid: very small fish, highly aggressive cichlids, and fin-nipping species
Anything small enough to fit into a severum's mouth may eventually be viewed as food.
Are Severums Easy to Care For?
Severums are moderately easy to care for and suitable for aquarists with some experience.
They require:
- Large aquariums
- Strong filtration
- Regular maintenance
- A varied diet
They are hardy once established and adapt well to aquarium life.
Severum Price in the UK
In the UK, severums typically cost between £15-£80+ depending on size, age, and colour variety.
Prices vary depending on:
- Variety and colouration
- Size and maturity
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist breeders
Premium Red-Spotted and Turquoise varieties often command higher prices.
Where to Buy Severums in the UK
Severums are widely available through UK aquarium shops and specialist cichlid breeders.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to inspect health and colouration
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Severums?
Yes - severums are commonly bred, sold, and rehomed by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Helps connect experienced cichlid keepers
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Severums
Severums are omnivorous and require a varied diet.
Key Tips
- Feed quality cichlid pellets or granules
- Supplement with vegetables such as peas, spinach, and courgette
- Offer frozen foods including bloodworms, krill, and brine shrimp
- Feed small portions 1-2 times daily
Vegetable matter is an important part of their long-term diet.
Common Problems with Severums
Hole-in-the-head disease, often caused by:
- Poor water quality
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Long-term stress
Territorial aggression, linked to:
- Small tank sizes
- Breeding behaviour
Plant damage, caused by:
- Natural grazing behaviour
- Curiosity and digging
Why Severums Are So Popular
- Beautiful disc-shaped body
- Available in many striking colour varieties
- More peaceful than many large cichlids
- Intelligent and interactive
- Excellent centrepiece fish for large aquariums
When kept correctly, severums become impressive, long-lived fish with plenty of personality and vibrant colouration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most severums grow to between 20-30 cm in captivity.
They are generally peaceful for large cichlids but can become territorial during breeding.
Yes, in sufficiently large aquariums with appropriate filtration and space.
At least 250 litres, with larger tanks preferred for pairs or communities.
Looking to Buy or Sell Severums Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're adding a colourful South American cichlid to your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.