Severum Cichlids are South American Cichlids from the northern Amazon region of Brazil.  They are known by the scientific name Heros severus and also by the name Cichlasoma severum.  Their common names include the Banded Cichlid, Hero Cichlid and the Severum.  They have a body shape similar to a discus.  There are two main color variations, with the Gold Severum having been developed from the Green Severum.  The Gold Severum has been been bred to a pale yellow iridescent color without the original distinctive dark bands.  The Green Severum has a greenish body with several horizontal bands on its body.  There are also blue variations.   Severums will eat flake foods, blood worms, brine shrimp and cichlid sticks.  They can become friendly with the person who feeds them.

Severum can be combined with other New World Cichlids in a tank of at least 50 gallons.  They are less aggressive than some other South American Cichlids, so it is possible to keep catfish with them.  The tank should be well planted and well rooted, as they like the lower levels of the tank.  Plastic plants may be less frustrating to provide.  The tank should have rocks and hiding areas, but should also have open areas for swimming.  It should have a soft substrate for digging.  The Severum should be kept with other fish of the same approximate size and temperament.

Severums are more difficult to breed than most New World Cichlids, because they do not form pairs as readily and the males are difficult to distinguish from the females.  Like most cichlids they spawn on clean horizontal surfaces and are very good parents.

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