Green Severum

Scientific Name: Heros efasciatus
Common Names: Green Severum, Banded Severum, Common Severum
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Amazon River basin (Brazil, Peru, Colombia; slow-moving rivers, flooded forests)
Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches); males slightly larger with longer fins
Lifespan: 8–12 years with proper care

Behavior: Peaceful for a cichlid, but territorial during breeding. Social and curious, they thrive in pairs or small groups (3–5) in larger tanks. They interact well with tankmates but may become shy without cover.

Single fish or pair: Minimum 55 gallons, though 75 gallons is preferred for comfort.

Temperature: 74–84°F (23–29°C); avoid prolonged exposure above 86°F.
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Compatible with peaceful, larger fish like angelfish, larger tetras (e.g., emperor tetras), Gold Laser Corydoras, or Red Head Tapajos in spacious tanks.

Avoid aggressive cichlids (e.g., Jack Dempsey) or small fish that could be prey (e.g., Serpae Tetras, Red Cherry Barbs in smaller tanks).
Best in species-specific tanks or with robust, non-aggressive tankmates.