Gold Severum Cichlid
Pickup currently unavailable at Napier
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
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The Gold Severum Cichlid (Heros efasciatus) is a popular South American freshwater cichlid admired for its calm temperament, intelligence, and striking golden-yellow coloration. Compared to many other cichlid species, Gold Severums are relatively peaceful, making them a great choice for well-planned community cichlid aquariums.
Gold Severums are active, inquisitive fish that occupy the mid to upper levels of the aquarium. They develop strong personalities and often recognise their keeper, especially when maintained in stable water conditions with a varied, high-quality diet.
With proper care and adequate space, Gold Severums grow into impressive display fish and can live for many years in a well-maintained aquarium.
Photo of juvenile fish, purchase size approx. 4-5cm
Physical Characteristics
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Adult Size: Typically 18–20 cm (7–8 inches) in captivity; may reach up to 25 cm (10 inches) in larger aquariums
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Coloration: Golden to yellow base colour; intensity improves with maturity, diet, and water quality
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Body Shape: Laterally compressed, oval-shaped body typical of Severum cichlids
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Sexual Dimorphism:
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Males may develop more pointed dorsal and anal fins
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Males often show slightly brighter coloration, especially during breeding
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Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Generally peaceful for a cichlid; can become territorial during breeding
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Tank Level: Mid to upper water column
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Personality: Intelligent, interactive, and curious
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Compatibility: Best kept with similarly sized, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish
Suitable Tank Mates
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Larger tetras
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Rainbowfish
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Peaceful cichlids
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Corydoras and larger catfish
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Plecos (appropriate size)
Breeding
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Spawning Type: Substrate spawner
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Breeding Setup:
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Flat stones, slate, or broad leaves recommended
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Provide visual barriers and hiding areas
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Parental Care:
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Both parents guard eggs and fry
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Increased aggression toward tank mates during breeding is normal
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Special Considerations
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Sensitive to poor water quality — regular water changes are essential
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Semi-aggressive behaviour may appear during spawning
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Colouration intensifies with a varied, vitamin-rich diet
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May uproot plants due to digging behaviour
Aquarium Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size:
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200 litres / 55 gallons for a single specimen
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Larger tanks recommended for community setups
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Water Temperature: 24–28°C
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pH Range: 6.0–7.5
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Water Hardness: 4–12 dGH
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
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Decor: Driftwood, rocks, hardy plants
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Filtration: Moderate to strong; clean, well-oxygenated water preferred
Photo for illustration purposes only
Pet City aims to provide up to date product information including ingredients, size and colour specifications, packaging and product features, as provided to us by the product manufacturer. As product details change from time to time, this information is intended as a guide only and some delay may occur in the updating of our listing. Product images are indicative of the appearance and the product delivered may vary slightly from the product image show. When precise information is important, we recommend that you read the label on the products you purchase or contact the manufacturer of the product.
