{"product_id":"orange-shoulder-severum","title":"Orange Shoulder Severum","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeet the Orange Shoulder Severum — a bold, color-rich centerpiece for larger freshwater aquariums. This mid-sized cichlid delivers vibrant personality and striking color: a vivid orange shoulder patch contrasts with a warm olive-gold body, creating a standout display that draws the eye and sparks conversation. Beyond its striking looks, the Orange Shoulder Severum offers engaging behavior, confident swimming, and the kind of presence that makes a tank feel alive.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a true cichlid, the Orange Shoulder Severum brings dynamic activity and intelligent behavior to your setup. It’s hardy compared to many more delicate tropicals, yet it rewards conscientious keepers with consistent water quality and steady routines. This morph is particularly sought after by hobbyists who want a visually impactful fish that remains approachable for intermediate hobbyists eager to expand their species lineup.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCare \u0026amp; Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Minimum 55 gallons for a single adult; a larger, longer tank (75 gallons or more) is ideal if you plan to keep a pair or a small group.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater parameters:\u003c\/strong\u003e Warm tropical requirements—roughly 76–82°F (24–28°C); pH 6.5–7.5; moderate hardness. Aim for stability and avoid sudden swings to keep colors vibrant and stress low.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSubstrate \u0026amp; decor:\u003c\/strong\u003e A roomy middle space for swimming, with a sandy or smooth substrate and sturdy decor (driftwood, rocks, and flat surfaces) for comfortable territory marking and potential egg sites.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLighting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate lighting with shaded areas helps reduce stress and encourages natural coloration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch2\u003eDiet \u0026amp; Feeding\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orange Shoulder Severum is an omnivore. Provide a varied diet to support bright coloration and robust growth:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eHigh-quality flake or pellet food as a daily staple\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eFrozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia a few times per week\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eOccasional vegetables or spirulina-based foods to balance nutrition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed in small, manageable portions 2–3 times a day. Remove uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality and prevent digestive issues.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eBehavior \u0026amp; Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding or when space is limited. They need room to patrol their territory and outlets for their energy.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank mates:\u003c\/strong\u003e Best with similarly sized, robust species that can hold their own. Avoid very small, delicate fish or shoaling species that may stress or become targets during territory disputes.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBreeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e Orange Shoulder Severums form pairs in appropriately sized tanks. They are mouthbrooders, laying eggs on flat surfaces and caring for the fry (one or both parents participate). A dedicated breeding setup with ample territory and minimal disturbance increases success.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch2\u003eWhy this morph stands out\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis orange-shoulder color pattern isn’t just about looks—it’s a sign of a healthy, well-cared-for fish. With stable water, steady nutrition, and a clean environment, the orange patch becomes more intense and eye-catching, making the Orange Shoulder Severum a true showpiece. The combination of impressive color, engaging behavior, and reliable hardiness makes this morph a compelling choice for experienced hobbyists looking to elevate their freshwater collection.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eUse cases \u0026amp; ideal audience\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eCenterpiece fish for a well-planned, mid-to-large community or species tank.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eEducational display for hobbyists who love observing territory dynamics and breeding behavior in cichlids.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eBreeding project for hands-on fishkeepers with a dedicated breeding setup and time for observation and gentle intervention.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch2\u003ePractical care tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eMaintain a stable environment with regular partial water changes (e.g., 20–30% weekly) and a reliable filtration system to keep nitrate levels low.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eAvoid sudden temperature or pH shifts, which can dull color and trigger stress behaviors.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eWhen introducing tank mates, ensure ample space and hiding spots so each fish can establish a secure territory without constant aggression.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eMonitor feeding to prevent overfeeding, which can cloud water and invite health issues.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Tropical Exotics","offers":[{"title":"1-2\"","offer_id":51823268888887,"sku":null,"price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0928\/0313\/7847\/files\/image_6d6f6283-8f5b-43a7-bf88-eda2da3880ef.png?v=1774550106","url":"https:\/\/tropicalexotics.store\/products\/orange-shoulder-severum","provider":"Tropical Exotics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}