Rio Negro Spotted Severum (Heros notatus)

Remarks:  The spotted severum is a species of South American cichlid not often seen in the hobby. This is unfortunate as these fish are absolutely stunning in regards to their coloration and pattern. Healthy, mature individuals have a base of orange and blue-green hues with the latter color typically being more concentrated toward the head. As indicated by their common name, on top of this vibrant color is a plethora of small spots that can be either deep red or black. As is typical of most severums, the spotted severum also has black vertical bars across the body. They have six in total with the first four being very short to the point of almost being more like spots, the 5th almost reaching the top of the fish, and the 6th spanning the entire height of the body. These bars are most apparent in young or stressed fish and can sometimes almost completely disappear based on the fish’s mood. Male spotted severums show even more elegant beauty by growing extensions to their ventral, anal, and dorsal fins.   The best way to ensure the spotted severum thrives in captivity is to replicate their natural habitat. In the wild, they are known to be endemic to the Rio Negro basin in Brazil in areas with soft, acidic, and heavily tannin-stained waters. This staining comes from the many botanicals that litter the sandy river bottom such as fallen leaves and branches that the severums tend to congregate around. Wood and botanicals such as Indian almond leaves can be used in the aquarium to add some tannins that will boost the health of the spotted severum and encourage them to show their best coloration. A sandy substrate is heavily recommended as severums enjoy digging which can be a very interesting behavior to observe and act as a source of enrichment.   Being opportunistic omnivores, spotted severums are not very picky and will take most foods offered. They will benefit from having a varied diet high in both protein and vegetable matter. Like other severums, they have a mostly peaceful disposition outside of territorial disputes among conspecifics, spawning, and predating upon anything small enough to fit in their mouths. To reduce the risk of fighting when keeping multiple severums together, keep them either as a single fish, a male and female pair, or a group of 5 or more. Providing plenty of space as well as décor to break their lines of sight will further help in reducing aggression. Live plants should be used with caution or not at all as severums are very likely to eat them. Severums grow to respectable sizes but not enough to be tank busters and do a good job of defending themselves so they can make a great choice for a South American community tank with other larger cichlids. With their peaceful demeanor, endearing personalities, and vibrant colors, it is easy to see why severums have become such a beloved staple within the hobby.