heros

Heros is a genus of freshwater cichlid fishes in the family Cichlidae, native to South America. In the taxonomic classification, the genus is placed within the subfamily Cichlinae and the tribe Heroini. Heros comprises several described species, with Heros severus, commonly known as the severum, being one of the best known in the aquarium trade. The distributed range includes parts of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, where they inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and flooded forests.

Members of Heros are medium-sized cichlids with a robust body and a variety of color patterns that can change with age, stress, and breeding status. Wild individuals are often olive to yellow-green with vertical bar patterns, though captive varieties may display more vivid and diverse coloration.

Habitat and ecology: In the wild, Heros species prefer soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with a temperature range around 24–28 C. They are omnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, plant material, and occasional small fish. In aquariums, they accept high-quality pellets or flakes, supplemented by vegetables and occasional live foods. They can be territorial, especially during breeding, and typically require ample swimming space and hiding places to reduce stress and aggression.

In the aquarium: Suitable setups are large, with a sturdy lid and good filtration. A general guideline is a minimum tank size that increases with the number of fish or presence of a breeding pair; a single adult often does well in a sizable setup, while pairs or groups need more space. Spawning is usually substrate-based, with the pair guarding eggs and fry. Regular water changes and stable water chemistry support health and coloration.

Conservation and taxonomy: Some Heros species face threats from habitat loss and local collection for the trade, though detailed conservation assessments vary by species. Taxonomic classifications may change as new genetic information becomes available.