The Rainfordia opercularis is one of the most uncommon reef fish we know about and its not to often this rare specimen available in the market. We don’t know too much about this specific specimen except it’s in the hands of Blue Harbor in Japan. As one of the world’s preeminent rare fish handlers, it’s no surprise to see this gem show up in the company’s holding tanks. This particular one measures in around 12 to 13 cm and was collected by Cairns Marine. Although we do not know where this R. opercularis was collected, we know that their distribution centers around Eastern Australia, more specifically southern Queensland to northern New South Wales. As you may recall the the flathead perch is closely related to the Liopropoma genus of basslets but its distinct characteristics — forward placement of the eyes, the flat head and wide mouth — made it much deserving of its own genus, Rainfordia. No price is attached to this rare beauty of a basslet but we are sure it will be out of our price range. More images after the break.
