Heros severus red spotted 3–4 cm (Heros severus) is a South American cichlid selected for its striking red spotting on body and fins. Our fish are juveniles of 3–4 cm, growing to around 15–20 cm as adults. This species is part of our freshwater range and is best suited to large, well-filtered, planted aquariums.

Behavior and care

Heros severus is a fairly peaceful but territorial cichlid, especially when breeding. It is best kept as a pair or in a small group of juveniles in a large tank, together with tankmates of similar size (peaceful cichlids, larger tetras, Loricariid catfish).

We recommend at least 300 litres for an adult pair, with a large footprint. Provide good filtration and oxygenation with moderate current. Use starter bacteria when cycling the tank and monitor water values regularly with our water tests. Avoid very small fish and dwarf shrimp, which are likely to be eaten.

Diet

Heros severus is an omnivore with a strong herbivorous component. In the aquarium it readily accepts pellets and sticks for cichlids, frozen foods (brine shrimp, krill, daphnia, finely chopped mussel/fish) and a significant amount of vegetable matter (spirulina, blanched vegetables such as courgette, spinach, peas).

Offer a varied diet using our foods for omnivorous cichlids, fed in 2–3 meals per day. Regular vegetable feeding helps reduce plant-nibbling behaviour.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 24 – 28 °C
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• GH: 3 – 12 °dGH
• KH: 2 – 8 °dKH
• Conductivity: 80 – 250 µS

This species comes from soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water and, like all cichlids, is sensitive to ammonia and nitrite spikes. Before adding fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Provide filtration sized to the bioload and maintain the tank using our maintenance tools and weekly water changes.

Decor and environment

Recreate an Amazon-style river habitat with a base of fine sand or smooth gravel, enriched with plenty of driftwood, branches and leaf litter to create cover and shaded areas.

Use robust live plants (Echinodorus, Cryptocoryne, Anubias, Microsorum). A moderate lighting system will show off the red spotting without stressing the fish.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

For a thriving Heros severus red spotted, provide a large tank, plenty of wood and plants, and a daily vegetable component in the diet. Stable water parameters and regular water changes will bring out the very best colours.
Stability = success: check your water regularly with our water tests and tailor the water-change schedule to stocking level and feeding.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.