Australian Flathead Perch (Rainfordia opercularis)
The Australian Flathead Perch is a true odd ball fish. They have amazing bright coloration with orange and aqua colored stripes when they reach adulthood. This species can grow to a max size of 5-7 inches.
The Australian Flathead Perch is one of the rarest aquarium fish on earth, and not many people have seen this species in real life. This cryptic deepwater fish is difficult to collect and rarely seen in the wild. Reefbuilders reported that some aquarium shops were selling these beauties for over $8k USD in 2011. Today, you can buy them for a fraction of that price thanks to captive breeding efforts. The larvae of this species is incredibly difficult to raise, but the aquaculture team in Biota’s North Carolina facility use their decades of experience to successfully breed and maintain this species.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rainfordia opercularis |
| Max Size | 5-7 inches |
| Coloration | Orange and aqua stripes (adult) |
| Origin | Australia |
| Breeding Location | Biota NC, North Carolina |
FAQ
What is the typical adult size of the Australian Flathead Perch?
The Australian Flathead Perch can grow to a maximum size of 5 to 7 inches when mature.
How difficult is it to breed Australian Flathead Perch?
The larvae of this species are extremely difficult to raise. However, Biota NC’s aquaculture team has successfully developed methods to breed and maintain the species through decades of experience.
Is this fish commonly available in the aquarium trade?
No, the Australian Flathead Perch is one of the rarest aquarium fish in the world and is rarely seen in the wild or in retail settings.
Irene Howard –
Received my Australian Flathead Perch and it’s stunning. The orange and aqua stripes are vibrant and it’s active in the tank. It’s a rare find and I’m glad I got it through Biota NC. The packaging was secure and the fish seemed healthy upon arrival.
Melanie Blake –
This fish is a true eye-catcher. I’ve never seen anything like its coloration. It’s a bit shy at first but settles into the tank well. The care instructions were clear and the species is a great addition to a deep-water aquarium.
Sue Edmunds –
After researching for months, I finally found a reliable source for this rare fish. The fish arrived quickly and was in excellent condition. It’s a unique species that adds a lot of visual interest to my tank.