I have seen a few of these fish in really nice tanks or displays at a LFS and have always really wanted one but heard they were expensive but never actually seen one for sale... Is this the price these fish really go for? And if so is it because they are that rare? Or that wanted?
#reefsquad
#r2rcommunity
The captive bred aspect, the fact that the wild-caught versions are very uncommon, the regional turmoil there (lack of collection of many Hawaiian fish or far reduced amount) are leading to the price.
Prior to the Hawaii collection drama of the past year or two, these fish (naturally collected) were $1400-$2600. They were quite rare. Now, wild-caught would probably be at least twice that price due to the restrictions.
Now add the captive-bred factor, that's how you arrive at that price.
Several sources are listing these captive-bred specimens for the same $7,500 price right now it appears. So yes, it's legit. Not a price I am paying, full-disclosure I am not much of an anthias fan. I have been known to say they look like glorified "marine" goldfish LOL. But I am the minority here, anthias are a coveted group of fish for most. Some other fish cost about this much, Conspicillatus Angelfish are about $7500 as well. Peppermint angels are $25,000 to $40,000! No thanks on all fronts!
Captive bred fish are very expensive because of the exorbitantly high R&D and fixed costs associated with doing this successfully. It is a very capital intensive venture.
Many many many of the early fish die and it can take years to master it before you have a specimen you can sell.
