....is it me or does anyone else feel the same

[chandigz]

There are a lot of variables when it comes to priceing. Stores generally base the prices generally on what they pay for them which includes cost of livestock, shipping, brokerage, permitting, doa, and (fish and wildlife fees if coming thru USA) Just because you see two of the same species of coral doesnt't mean they are the same. Where are they from? An aussie purple tip elegence might sell for $200 and whereas an indo purple tip elegence would sell for $80. Aussie corals will cost 2-3 times more then indo corals because of higher wages for collectors and higher shipping costs. Cultured Named corals with true lineage will cost more then a wild equivelent. The prices also vary a lot between different exporters.

Also if your looking for something talk to your LFS. Just because you don't see it doesn't mean they can't get it.