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Background
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Most rare corals entered the industry from the tanks of divers who harvested the corals themselves. Fish classified as ultra-rare and exotic typically include species that are difficult to find, difficult to catch, difficult to transport and/or less abundant than other species. Ultra-rare and exotic corals typically include slow-growing corals with brilliant neon or fluorescent color combinations. Many of the rare and exotic corals available today have entered the market within the last few years via the tanks of serious collectors who harvest the corals from the ocean and propagate them in their aquariums. Many collectors network with one another and trade "frags" or fragments of their ultra-rare corals.
Rare and Exotic Fishes
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Examples of ultra-rare fishes include the flame wrasse (Cirrhilabrus jordani) and the Girabaldi damselfish (Hypsypops rubicund). Flame wrasses originate from Hawaii and live in deep, rocky parts of the reefs. The small fish exhibit bright yellow and red coloration and the larger males boast long, showy fins, according to "The Marine Atlas." The exotic coloration and large size of the Garibaldi damselfish sets it apart from common damselfishes. Juvenile Garibaldi damselfishes have bright orange scales with electric-blue spots that fade as the fish matures.
Rare and Exotic Corals
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Corals with blue colorations do not commonly occur in reefs. Some species of Montipora and chalice corals exhibit vivid contrasting colors highly desirable among aquarists. According to the Advanced Aquarist's online magazine, the Superman Montipora (Montipora danae) exhibits a deep blue color and bright red-orange polyps, similar to the attire of the comic book super hero after whom it is named. The reverse Superman coral has a bright red color with contrasting blue polyps. The rarest chalice corals (Echinophyllia aspera) form a colorful encrusting layer with contrasting polyp eyes. Watermelon chalice corals have fluorescent-pink flesh with neon-green eyes; pink lava chalice corals have bright purple flesh with pink eyes; and moonscape chalice corals have an electric-blue membrane with green eyes.
Other Rare and Exotic Species
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Japanese dragon eels are especially rare and seldom offered for sale in the aquarium trade (Enchelycore pardalis). With their horns, pointed noses and jagged teeth, dragon eels have an ominous appearance. Their orange, black and golden coloration and spotted patterns further add to the desirability of dragon eels as an exotic saltwater tank species. An extremely aggressive species, dragon eels can seriously injure divers trying to catch them, according to the National Park Service.
Considerations
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Acquiring rare and exotic species for the saltwater aquarium can cost between $300 and $1000 U.S. per specimen. While most exotic fish and coral species are relatively well suited for life in captivity, some have specialized requirements that make them somewhat difficult for the casual hobbyist to keep. Before purchasing an ultra rare and exotic coral or saltwater fish species, aquarists should evaluate their aquarium to ensure proper habitat and check with the retailer to verify the origin and health of the species.
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Ultra Rare & Exotic Saltwater Fish & Corals
The saltwater aquarium pastime gives hobbyists a chance to interact with and display exotic species alien to the everyday lives of most people. Aquarists typically begin with similar selections of inexpensive and hardy species well suited to the occasional beginner error. As saltwater aquarium enthusiasts become more adept in their hobby, they seek out rarer and more exotic species that typically feature brilliant color combinations and unusual markings.