Heros efasciatus sp. Rotkeil

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Heros efasciatus sp. Rotkeil is a colorful form of the severum, a large South American freshwater cichlid valued for its deep body and expressive behavior. Its common name, Red Shoulder Severum, refers to the reddish-orange coloration visible on the front portion of the body and fins. This variety is offered as a wild-collected fish, so careful acclimation and stable water are especially important. Although its rarity is rated low, meaning very common in the specialty trade, it still belongs in a spacious aquarium suited to a robust and territorial cichlid.

General species description

Heros efasciatus sp. Rotkeil belongs to the severum group, consisting of large laterally compressed freshwater cichlids. It has a rounded body, calm swimming style and generally even temperament outside breeding periods. Adults become substantial fish and create a significant biological load. A well-filtered aquarium decorated with roots and stones is more suitable than a densely planted setup. Wild-collected specimens may be more sensitive to transportation and sudden changes. In a community aquarium, compatibility depends mainly on the size of tankmates, available space and the presence of separate visual territories.

Geographic origin and biotope

The species is associated with the Amazon Basin, including calm freshwater environments in Colombia and nearby regions. It inhabits river margins, quiet side channels and areas affected by seasonal changes in water level. The biotope generally contains soft, slightly acidic water that may be stained by organic matter and tannins. Submerged roots, branches and shaded areas provide shelter and territorial reference points. For wild-collected fish, clean, well-oxygenated water and gradual acclimation are especially important during the transition to aquarium life.

Precise location and local name

In Colombia, Heros efasciatus sp. Rotkeil is associated with lowland Amazonian habitats rather than fast, rocky water. Common trade names include Red Shoulder Severum, red severum and Rotkeil. Rotkeil is a German term that literally means “red wedge,” referring to the reddish area near the back of the head and upper flank. Local names may vary among collectors, exporters and countries of distribution; severum remains the most widely recognized vernacular name in the aquarium trade.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Heros efasciatus sp. Rotkeil has a tall, strongly compressed body with long dorsal and anal fins. The base color ranges from olive green to golden brown, while the shoulder, back and fins may show red or orange tones. Color intensity often increases in healthy adults and during social interactions. Small vertical markings may appear depending on mood, age and surroundings, but they are not always permanent. Its adult size and body shape call for an open layout. Mature males may develop more pointed fins and stronger coloration, although visual sexing remains unreliable.

General diet

This severum is an omnivore with a herbivorous tendency and benefits from a varied diet. Offer quality pellets for large cichlids, vegetable foods and occasional portions of frozen food. Peas, zucchini, spinach or algae-based preparations can supplement the menu. Shrimp, worms and other protein-rich foods should be offered moderately to prevent an unbalanced diet. For wild-collected fish, small frequent meals can reduce stress and support recovery. A varied feeding plan helps maintain red coloration, growth and vitality without encouraging overfeeding.

Essential data

• Native river name: Colombian Amazon Basin
• Local name used: Red Shoulder Severum
• Origin of the scientific name: Heros efasciatus, the species name assigned by Heckel
• Full-name etymology: Heros means hero; efasciatus means lacking bands; Rotkeil means “red wedge” in German
• Common/vernacular names: Red Shoulder Severum, red severum, Rotkeil
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Cichlinae
• Name pronunciation: hee-rohs ef-ah-see-ah-tuss - spesh rot-kyle
• Discovery: Johann Jakob Heckel, 1840
• Maximum adult size: About 20 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 30 °C; pH 5.5 to 7.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Calm, shaded water with roots, branches, leaf litter and waterside vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Geophagus pellegrini, Andinoacara pulcher, Hoplisoma metae
• Temperament and behavior: Generally peaceful, territorial while breeding, active and intelligent
• Water depth: Shallow to intermediate areas along margins and quiet side channels
• Sexual dimorphism: Males may be larger, with more pointed fins and stronger markings; juveniles are difficult to sex
• Bottom structure and flow: Sand or mud with plant debris, roots and low to moderate current

In your aquarium

To keep Heros efasciatus sp. Rotkeil successfully, provide a spacious aquarium, strong filtration and regular water changes. Wild-collected specimens should be acclimated slowly and fed modestly during the first weeks. Keep water conditions stable, provide sturdy shelters and avoid tankmates that are too small or excessively aggressive. A layout made with roots, smooth stones and durable plants better reflects its needs than a densely planted aquarium. Success depends mainly on available space, water quality and a varied diet.