Anyone brought back rock from Mexico?

[bmiller1234]

The wife and I are taking a trip back to Playa del Carmen in February. I was thinking about maybe getting some base rock or maybe something live while I am there but wasn't sure how it would be thru customs?? I was also thinking if I see a really great loose live rock out snorkeling I could fed ex home as my sister will be watching the house and by then the 100 should be in a good cycle and ready for some new rock.

Has anyone done anything like this or known anyone who has or am I just asking to miss my flight due to customs?

 

[cloakerpoked]

Customs would be a nightmare, not to mention that even collecting this kind of stuff is highly illegal without a permit.

 

[bmiller1234]

I wasn't planning on any actual corals. Just rock. I see buildings built from dry reef rock and think thay would look awesome in tank.
I wouldn't take any corals, too many people have enough to trade and buy without me molesting the ocean.

 

[NaClH2Opgh]

Even if it doesn't have corals on it the collection of live rock has been banned in places. Not sure on the laws in Mexico, but the way their system works, you are guilty until you prove yourself innocent..:uzi:

 

[cloakerpoked]

I wasn't planning on any actual corals. Just rock. I see buildings built from dry reef rock and think thay would look awesome in tank.
I wouldn't take any corals, too many people have enough to trade and buy without me molesting the ocean.

Just like NACl said...it isn't organisms specifically. But in any case, you're getting the rock because there ARE organisms on it. I'd research the laws very carefully, but would bet that there is a permit requirement, simply because they make more money that way. Also since it's a wet (read: live) rock, the potential for ecological problems in the US will make it difficult to import or clear customs, unless you lie to FedEx about the contents of your package, then get through without a custom's inspection. A lot of well-intentioned people have introduced not so well intentioned species into US waters this way.

 

[Mitsuko]

Customs doesn't check all your bags all the time. I've traveled and many times they just hurry you through so they can sit back down. I still wouldn't try it though. Why go on vacation and come home with the stress of being caught smuggling live rock...lol (that just sounds funny) There's plenty of guys around here selling it for practically free anyways. Good luck.

 

[LeviChar1]

It is cheaper and more legal to just buy live rock from guys like me here on RC. Several of us are offering rock at $2.5/lb with no jail time. My advice is to go that route. ;o)

 

[bmiller1234]

K so consensus is no live rock from mexico. What an awesome reefer tale about being in a mexican prison for the arch in my tank haha

Levi. I will prob be contacting you shortly. Hoping to fill the tank saturday.

I will be posting my diy build thread soon. Will link it over here once its up.

 

[bmiller1234]

K so consensus is no live rock from mexico. What an awesome reefer tale about being in a mexican prison for the arch in my tank haha

Levi. I will prob be contacting you shortly. Hoping to fill the tank saturday.

I will be posting my diy build thread soon. Will link it over here once its up.

 

[Johnny C]

Just another unbiased opinion; I have a friend who has brought 10-15 lbs. in a small suitcase 3x without a single issue.