Buy Australian Flathead Perch (Rainfordia opercularis) – Ultra-Rare Reef Predator

Species Overview

The Australian Flathead Perch (Rainfordia opercularis) is a deepwater reef fish native to the coral-rich regions of the Great Barrier Reef. Once thought to be nearly impossible to obtain, it is now available only through select legal exporters in Australia. With a vivid tiger-striped orange-and-purple coloration and bold demeanor, it’s a standout centerpiece for high-end reef tanks and collectors.

• Scientific Name: Rainfordia opercularis

• Origin: Queensland, Australia

• Habitat Type: Coral reef caves and crevices (depths of 20–40m)

• Adult Size: Up to 7 inches (17 cm)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (territorial but solitary)

Why This Fish is Special

• Exceptionally rare and high-demand – very few exported each year

• Only native to a small stretch of reef in Eastern Australia

• Bold striping and royal coloration set it apart in any reef or predator tank

• High survival rate when responsibly acclimated by expert aquarists

• Highly photogenic – ideal for show tanks and aquascaped marine displays

Available Sizes

• Juvenile: 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) – Very limited stock

• Sub-Adult: 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm)

• Adult: 5–7 inches (12–17 cm) – Elite collector-grade

Ethical Sourcing & Compliance

• Collected by licensed Australian marine life operators

• Quarantined and acclimatized by specialized aquarists

• Export documentation and CITES-compliant paperwork included

• Strict health screening protocols: disease checks, stress reduction, water quality matching

• Shipped only to countries where importation is legal

Care & Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons (570 liters)

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74–78°F (23–26°C)

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG

• Diet:

  • Enriched frozen silversides, mysis shrimp, krill, marine pellets

  • Carnivorous – train to accept frozen over live food

• Compatibility:

  • Best kept solo or with larger, non-aggressive tankmates

  • Avoid housing with small ornamental fish or invertebrates

• Reef Safe: With caution – will eat smaller tank inhabitants

Shipping & Packaging Details

• Ships From:

  • Asia-Pacific Orders: Singapore Hub

  • North America Orders: Los Angeles Hub

  • Europe Orders: Rotterdam Hub

• Shipping Methods:

  • International Air Cargo (Priority Fish)

  • Express Delivery via FedEx, UPS, or Aramex

  • Local in-house courier available in select regions

• Packaging Protocol:

  • Double-sealed oxygen-rich bags with ammonia neutralizers

  • Temperature-regulated via heat/cold packs and Styrofoam box

  • Labeled: Live Aquatic Animal – Handle With Care

Live Arrival Guarantee

• Applies to first delivery attempt only

• Requires unboxing video within 1 hour of delivery

• Compensation via store credit or replacement, depending on availability

• No returns of live fish for ethical and legal reasons

Specifications Table