Species profile
Rotkeil Severum
Heros sp. "Rotkeil"
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
300 L minimum aquarium
12–20 cm adult size
Midwater
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Undescribed Heros form from the Iquitos region of Peru. Husbandry is well established in the hobby, but it should not be presented as a formally described species.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7
GH
Not yet documented
KH
Up to 12 dKH
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
3
Fairly easy-going for a large cichlid outside breeding. Keep singly, as a compatible pair or in a roomy group; breeding pairs become territorial and small fish may be eaten.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 50 cm
Alternative names
Redneck Severum, Red Shoulder Severum, Heros sp. 'rotkeil'
Native range
Reported from parts of the Amazon basin near Iquitos, northern Peru.
Natural habitat
Slow-moving water with marginal vegetation, submerged roots and woody cover. Use soft sand, driftwood and visual barriers with modest current.
Diet & feeding
Use a varied mix of quality cichlid pellets/flakes, frozen invertebrate foods and fresh vegetable matter. Soft-leaved plants may be eaten.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males often show more pointed dorsal/anal fins and strong reticulated red cheek markings; females are generally smaller with less cheek pattern.
Breeding
Biparental substrate spawner; pairs clean flat rock or similar surfaces, lay large clutches and guard eggs and fry.