Question about Severums

[mystic1]

We were so saddened yesterday when we lost "Bubba Fin" our Tiger Oscar. He was by no means full grown and we were fully aware he would make 2 more tank transitions before he was finally settled. That was fine with us because we had made the commitment to bring him home so he was our responsibility to meet his needs as he grew. Now that things have changed and I can take a step back and fully plan the next purchase and assure needs are met I am thinking about a pair of Severums. My question is.. What size aquarium will a pair need for their final home? It does not matter if they produce or not either way I will take responsibility if fry should arrive. I have read that you should start with a group of young and allow them to pair off but what do you do with the ones who do not pair? If I buy them then I am responsible for them. Please help because honestly I don't think I can go much longer with my Standard Dachshund whimpering in front of Bubba Fin's empty hospital tank. I have 40 gal. stretch hex that has been cycling for awhile and would make an awesome temp. home for the severums. Other cichlids were recently move to 50 gallon. So I have a delimma and an empty tank. Any info. will be greatly appreciated. Festus the dachshund will be much happier also.

[legendaryfrog]

I dont think a pair of severums would work for a 40 gallon hex. Sevs. get pretty large (8-10") and like having their territory. A 40g hex tank can simply not house 1 -or 2 severums.

If you're set on severums, a 90g tank would be vrey nice. Then you could have a tankmate, such as a small pleco or 4 silver dollars.


as for your 40g, you could get a few smaller fish. ask around on the board. Im sure someone will give you good advise.

[mystic1]

Thank you so much. So the 40g stretch hex would not even work temp. for young ones then? I would never expect them to stay in that tank permanently, gosh no, I have "other plans" for that tank later.
We are remodeling and the area for the BIG TANK is not complete yet. I was hoping they would do ok for about 6 months but if not it is best I know now then find out later!! :)

[Star_Rider]

I don't think you can house them in a 40 stretch for 6 months.

lf is correct they will get to about 10" if not larger..and they have a thick body and tall(almost rectangular).

I do like the idea of a 90 that gives you room for tank mates.

[mystic1]

I went back into the "think tank" and came up with a new plan. Ok maybe not a new plan I just copied legendaryfrog's plan!!
If I understand him right if I get a 90g then I can have 1 severum and he can have a couple of buddies, am I right? If that is the case then that sounds really good to me. I just need 1 large fish with a bit of personality. Festus (the dachshund) could care less about the smaller fish in the 50g, he pays no attention to them and just keeps gazing at the empty tank that held his buddy. To watch those 2 press noses against the glass was really enjoyable.

[PPOHolbrook]

I think you need a 90 gallon as well. With that you have several options. You could doa a pair of Sevs, or you could do one Sev and another larger fish or maybe 2. I have a 75 gallon with a Sev and a Blue Acara w. cory cats and tetras. PLenty of room!!!!!!!!!!!1