Severum Rotkeil Red Shoulder (Heros efasciatus) — Complete Care Guide
The Severum Rotkeil Red Shoulder (Heros efasciatus) is one of the most breathtaking color variants of the Severum cichlid. "Rotkeil" is German for "red wedge," referring to the vivid red-orange blush that covers the throat, chest, and shoulder area of mature specimens. Combined with a golden-green body and intricate facial markings, this fish is a true centerpiece species for large South American biotope aquariums.
Ready to add one to your collection? Shop our Severum Rotkeil Red Shoulder juveniles — available now at BioAcuatica.
Species Overview
- Scientific name: Heros efasciatus
- Common names: Severum Rotkeil, Red Shoulder Severum, Rotkeil Severum
- Family: Cichlidae
- Origin: South America — Amazon River basin
- Adult size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Tank Size & Setup
Severums are large, active cichlids that need generous space. A minimum of 75 gallons is required for a single specimen, with 100+ gallons recommended for a pair or community setup. They appreciate a well-decorated tank that mimics their Amazonian home:
- Driftwood and smooth rocks for territory and shelter
- Hardy plants like Amazon swords or Java fern (they may uproot softer plants)
- Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate
- Moderate flow and good filtration — canister filters work best
- Dim to moderate lighting to bring out their colors
Water Parameters
Rotkeil Severums thrive in warm, slightly acidic to neutral water:
- Temperature: 77–84°F (25–29°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: 5–15 dGH
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
Weekly water changes of 25–30% are essential. Severums are sensitive to poor water quality, which can trigger stress coloration and disease.
Diet & Feeding
Severums are omnivores with a strong herbivorous lean. A varied diet keeps them healthy and enhances their coloration:
- High-quality cichlid pellets as a staple
- Spirulina flakes or wafers for plant-based nutrition
- Blanched vegetables: zucchini, spinach, peas, cucumber
- Protein treats: bloodworms, earthworms, brine shrimp (2–3x per week)
Feed 2x daily. Avoid overfeeding — Severums are prone to obesity, which can shorten their lifespan.
Temperament & Behavior
Severums are considered semi-aggressive cichlids — generally peaceful for their size but can become territorial, especially during breeding. They are intelligent, curious fish that often recognize their owners and may beg for food at the glass. Pairs will bond strongly and engage in elaborate courtship behaviors.
Avoid keeping two males together in smaller tanks, as rivalry can lead to serious aggression. A male-female pair in a large tank is ideal.
Compatible Tankmates
Choose tankmates that are large enough not to be eaten and robust enough to hold their own:
- Tiger Silver Dollars and other large characins
- Geophagus species
- Large plecos (Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys)
- Other large South American cichlids of similar temperament
- Large peaceful catfish
Avoid small fish, delicate species, and highly aggressive cichlids like Flowerhorns or large Dovii.
Breeding
Severums are open spawners that lay eggs on flat surfaces like rocks or broad leaves. Breeding pairs are devoted parents and will aggressively defend their eggs and fry. To encourage spawning:
- Raise the temperature slightly (82–84°F)
- Perform larger water changes with slightly cooler water to simulate the rainy season
- Provide flat rocks or broad-leafed plants as spawning sites
- Feed a high-protein diet in the weeks leading up to spawning
Common Health Issues
- Hole-in-the-head (HITH): Common in cichlids kept in poor water conditions. Maintain pristine water quality and a varied diet rich in vitamins.
- Ich: Treat promptly with heat therapy or medication.
- Bloat: Often caused by overfeeding or a diet too high in protein. Feed plant matter regularly.
Ready to Add a Rotkeil Severum to Your Tank?
The Severum Rotkeil Red Shoulder is one of the most rewarding cichlids you can keep — intelligent, beautiful, and long-lived. BioAcuatica carries carefully conditioned juveniles ready for your aquarium:
All fish ship with a live arrival guarantee. Contact us with any questions about compatibility or tank setup before ordering.