Description

The Red Spot Gold Severum is a selectively bred color variety of the Severum cichlid from the genus Heros, a group native to the Amazon basin in South America. Wild Heros species inhabit slow-moving rivers, flooded forests, and marginal lagoons where submerged wood, leaf litter, and soft sediments dominate the environment.

The “Red Spot” form is a captive-developed strain prized for its golden body color overlaid with scattered red spotting that intensifies as the fish matures. Like other Severums, it retains the distinctive disc-shaped body and calm cruising behavior that made the species popular in aquariums for decades.

Behavior and Temperament

Red Spot Gold Severums are generally considered one of the more peaceful medium-large cichlids. They spend much of their time slowly cruising the tank and inspecting surfaces rather than aggressively defending territory.

They coexist well with other medium-sized peaceful to semi-peaceful fish. While they may display mild territorial behavior during breeding, they rarely exhibit the persistent aggression associated with more combative cichlid species.

Adult Size

Adults typically reach 8–10 inches.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 75–82°F
pH: 6.0–7.8
GH: 3–12 dGH
KH: 2–8 dKH

Diet

Red Spot Gold Severums are omnivores that benefit from a varied diet. High-quality cichlid pellets should form the base of their feeding program, supplemented with frozen foods such as bloodworms, mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp.

They also appreciate vegetable matter including spirulina-based foods, blanched spinach, zucchini, or peas.

Tank Requirements

A tank of at least 55 gallons is recommended for a single adult, with larger aquariums preferred for pairs or community setups.

Aquascaping should include driftwood, rock structures, and open swimming areas. While plants can be kept with Severums, softer species may occasionally be nibbled. Hardy plants or wood-attached species such as Anubias and Java fern tend to fare best.

Moderate filtration and good water movement help maintain stable conditions.

Why They’re Popular

Red Spot Gold Severums are popular because they combine the personality of larger cichlids with a relatively calm temperament. Their metallic gold coloration and scattered red spotting become more vivid as they mature, making them a striking centerpiece fish for South American themed aquariums.

These fish are also appreciated for their intelligence and interactive behavior, often recognizing their keeper and approaching the front glass during feeding.