I feel there are many alternatives and am beginning an experiment of alternative species myself. I believe certain species are better choices for obvious reasons, such as the FHM due to reproduction traits. I'm also finding that availability of certain species that may fit this alternative niche are not commonly used for many reasons.
I think a close examination of species present in your area, reproduction traits and how they may perform in your environment will lead you to a point of decision as to whether less common varieties are worth the trouble.
I can see why they say it's not good practice to try and reinvent the wheel in this situation, but until I prove that theory to myself I'm going to try additional species, fail or not.
Research your local varieties and base your decisions heavily on that.
my 2 cents...
