๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Severum Cichlid and Swordtail Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โš ๏ธ Use Caution โ€” Compatibility Score: 63/100
63/100 โ€” Use Caution

Severum Cichlid and Swordtail Compatibility Overview

Severum Cichlid and Swordtail can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. A larger tank (minimum 100 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.

Compatibility factors for Severum Cichlid and Swordtail
FactorSeverum CichlidSwordtailVerdict
Temperature72โ€“84ยฐF65โ€“80ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“80ยฐF
pH Range5.5โ€“7.07.0โ€“8.3โš ๏ธ 7.0โ€“7.0 (narrow)
Temperamentsemipeacefulโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size11.8 in5 inโš ๏ธ 2.4ร— difference
Min. Group1+3+See below
Min. Tank Size100 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.
Temperament risk is relatively low when normal group sizes are maintained.

Caution Points

Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water.

Species Profiles

Severum Cichlid โ€” Heros efasciatus

Severum Cichlid and Swordtail compatibility โ€” Severum Cichlid

The Severum Cichlid, known for its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, is a popular choice for freshwater aquariums. They have a lifespan of around 5 years and require a minimum tank size of 80 liters. These fish are not schooling fish but are known to be gentle and compatible with a variety of tank mates.

โ†’ Full Severum Cichlid care guide

Swordtail โ€” Xiphophorus hellerii

Severum Cichlid and Swordtail compatibility โ€” Swordtail

Hardy livebearer with a distinctive elongated lower tail fin in males. Peaceful community fish that tolerate a wide temperature range.

โ†’ Full Swordtail care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Severum Cichlid live with Swordtail?

With significant caution and a larger tank. Severum Cichlid and Swordtail can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. A larger tank (minimum 100 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.

What tank size do I need for Severum Cichlid and Swordtail together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Severum Cichlid and Swordtail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Severum Cichlid and Swordtail?

72โ€“80ยฐF โ€” inside Severum Cichlid's 72โ€“84ยฐF and Swordtail's 65โ€“80ยฐF.

Is a Severum Cichlid aggressive toward a Swordtail?

Severum Cichlid is semi and Swordtail is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Severum Cichlid and Swordtail

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable100 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community150 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup180 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.