Severum: Tank Size, Tank Mates and How Many to Keep

Severums are large, round cichlids sometimes called the poor man's discus. They are calm for their size and learn to take food from your hand.

Adult size
7.9 in20 cm
Smallest tank
75 gallons284 liters
How many
One or more
Temperature
73–84 °F23–29 °C
pH
6–7.5
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Swims
In the middle
Heater needed
Yes

What size tank does a severum need?

At least 75 gallons (284 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 75 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Heros efasciatus.

How many severums in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if severums are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Keep one severum per tank, whatever the size. Of the common sizes, these are big enough: 75 gallon, 125 gallon.

Check severums against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

  • Eats most live plants.

Tank mates for severums

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

  • Guppy: Severum (about 8 in) can eat guppy (about 2 in).
  • Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
  • Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and much bigger. Severum would be bullied.
  • Molly: They need different water: Severum likes a pH of 6–7.5, molly likes 7.5–8.5.

Questions and answers

What size tank does a severum need?

At least 75 gallons (284 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 75 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many severums should be kept together?

One is fine. A severum does not need company, though a large enough tank can hold more than one.

Can severums live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Severum needs at least 75 gallons (284 liters), and grows to 8 in (20 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.

What temperature do severums need?

73–84 °F (23–29 °C), with a pH of 6–7.5. In most homes that means a heater.

Can severums live with a betta?

Usually, yes, in a tank of 75 gallons (284 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.