Hoplarchus psittacus, also commonly known as the true parrot originates in the rivers of Brazil, and the upper Orinoco basin in Venezuela. They are extremely beautiful, showing emerald green color and bright red eyes. The freshwater fish often school in groups in both their juvenile state and adulthood. They lean toward more of a frozen food diet such as bloodworms, chopped krill, brine shrimp, and even pellets or flakes. In the wild they target shady areas with lots of leaf coverage, therefore they will definitely enjoy a planted aquarium where they can hide behind any plants or decorations if they feel threatened by other fish. Although they are more towards the peaceful side to their same species when housing these beautiful spotted true parrots they can claim territory in the tank and claim territory.