How to Identify Red Severum

To identify Red Severum (Heros efasciatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Wild type: Greenish-brown to yellowish body with 8-9 distinct dark vertical bands, often with a prominent dark spot on the flank. 'Red Severum' morphs are selectively bred to exhibit a predominantly reddish-orange body, sometimes with faint banding or iridescent spots. Fins often match body coloration, sometimes with red or orange margins.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Laterally compressed, deep body, Large, rounded head with prominent eyes, Thick lips, Often exhibits a dark spot on the flank, particularly in wild types, Vertical banding (more pronounced in juveniles and stressed individuals)

Dorsal fin

Long, extending almost the entire length of the back, with 15-17 spines and 11-13 soft rays. Posterior part is soft-rayed and rounded.

Tail fin

Large, rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed, fan-shaped pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is long, with 6-7 spines and 9-11 soft rays, similar in shape to the soft-rayed portion of the dorsal fin. Pelvic fins are pointed.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Size

   Look for a deep, laterally compressed body, reaching up to 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) in length. The head is relatively large and rounded.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Wild types have greenish-brown to yellowish bodies with 8-9 dark vertical bands and a prominent dark spot on the flank. 'Red Severum' morphs are distinctly reddish-orange. Juveniles often show more pronounced banding.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Observe the long dorsal and anal fins, which are rounded posteriorly. The caudal fin is large and rounded.

4. 4

   Mouth

   The mouth is terminal with thick lips, adapted for grazing and picking at food items.

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