Red Shoulder Severum - (Heros sp. Rotkeil)

🐟 Red Shoulder Severum – (Heros sp. ‘Rotkeil’) – Peaceful and Colorful South American Cichlid for Sale

The Red Shoulder Severum (Heros sp. ‘Rotkeil’), also called the Rotkeil Severum, is a striking variant of the Severum cichlid known for its vivid orange-red shoulder markings that contrast beautifully with its green-gold body. Native to river systems in South America, it combines vibrant coloration with a generally peaceful demeanor, making it a favorite for large, planted community aquariums.

With proper care, this species can live for many years, displaying both beauty and intelligence, and often forming bonds with its keepers.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Shoulder Severum (Heros sp. ‘Rotkeil’)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Shoulder Severum, Rotkeil Severum
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Heros sp. ‘Rotkeil’
• 🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon Basin tributaries)
• 🎨 Appearance: Green-gold body with bold red/orange markings on the shoulders and upper flanks
• 📏 Max Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; often captive-bred

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful for a large cichlid; can be kept in community setups with similar-sized fish
• 👫 Forms monogamous pairs when breeding
• 🐟 May show mild territorial behavior during spawning
• 🪵 Intelligent and interactive with owners

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons for a pair
• 🌿 Sandy or fine gravel substrate with driftwood and smooth rocks
• 🌱 Hardy plants or floating vegetation (may nibble softer plants)
• 💡 Moderate lighting
• 🌊 Good filtration with moderate flow

💧 Water Parameters – Red Shoulder Severum Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous

• 🌾 High-quality cichlid pellets and sticks
• 🦐 Frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp
• 🪱 Bloodworms and blackworms (as treats)
• 🥬 Blanched vegetables such as spinach, peas, or zucchini

📋 Red Shoulder Severum Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Shoulder Severum offers a blend of peaceful temperament and bold coloration, making it an ideal centerpiece fish for large, well-decorated aquariums.