Red Shoulder Rotkeil Severum

Introduction

The Red Shoulder Rotkeil Severum is a vibrant and peaceful South American cichlid, admired for its stunning red-orange head and golden-green body. This species is an excellent choice for those looking for a manageable yet striking cichlid that thrives in a well-maintained community aquarium.

Scientific Name

Heros efasciatus

Common Name

Red Shoulder Severum, Rotkeil Severum, Red-Head Severum

Water Quality and Temperature

To ensure the best health and coloration of the Red Shoulder Rotkeil Severum, maintain the following water parameters:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH Level: 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Water Hardness: 5-15 dGH (soft to moderately hard)
• Filtration: High-quality filtration is necessary as they produce moderate waste
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong to mimic their natural river environment

Feeding

The Red Shoulder Rotkeil Severum is an omnivore with a diverse diet. Provide a mix of:

• Staple Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
• Vegetables: Blanched zucchini, spinach, peas
• Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, krill
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 small meals per day

Tank Mates

This species is semi-aggressive but can coexist with the right tank mates, such as:

• Compatible Tank Mates:
  • Other peaceful to semi-aggressive South American cichlids (Angelfish, Geophagus, Uaru)
  • Large schooling fish like Congo Tetras and Silver Dollars
  • Bottom dwellers like Plecos and large Corydoras
• Avoid:
  • Small fish like Neon Tetras (may be eaten)
  • Very aggressive cichlids like Red Devils or Jaguars

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
• Decorations: Provide driftwood, caves, and rocks for hiding spots
• Other Additions: Flat rocks or broad leaves for potential breeding sites

Suitable Plants

While Severums may nibble on soft plants, hardy plants such as:

• Anubias
• Java Fern
• Amazon Swords
• Vallisneria
  These are great options as they can withstand occasional grazing.

Sexing

• Males tend to grow slightly larger and develop longer dorsal and anal fins.
• Males may also show more intense coloration and patterning.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pairing: Best to raise a small group and let a natural pair form
• Spawning Behavior: They lay eggs on flat surfaces, and both parents will protect their fry
• Ideal Breeding Conditions:
  • Water temperature around 80-82°F (27-28°C)
  • Frequent water changes and high-protein diet to encourage spawning
• Fry Care: Newly hatched fry should be fed baby brine shrimp and crushed flakes

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
• Lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care

General Information

The Red Shoulder Rotkeil Severum is known for its beautiful coloration, interactive personality, and relatively peaceful nature compared to other large cichlids. They thrive in well-structured community tanks and make excellent centerpiece fish for South American setups.

A Fun Fact

The word “Rotkeil” comes from German, meaning “Red Wedge,” describing the distinct red marking on the head and shoulders of this stunning Severum variety.