I really don't see a problem with a coldwater tank. Very neat, very challenging, very rewarding.
But that doesn't make the other points wrong. Wildlife collecting does require a permit (I
think just a fishing permit may suffice, but it would be better to check), and certainly never collect anything out of a protected area. Releasing anything back that has been exposed to non-native species should also be avoided.
And, unfortunately, yes, if a species is coldwater but manages to survive temporarily at warmer temps, that doesn't mean it is "thriving." I mean, we just don't know. If the species natural range extends into waters where the temperatures are that within your tank, that would be one thing; but if the range doesn't extend that far -- that has to tell you something. I'm not saying it is, I'm not saying it's not; I'm saying that just plunking something into your tank and the fact that it doesn't die right away -- doesn't tell you enough to make an accurate judgment call. More careful research needs to be done. Ultimately, I think forcing an animal to adapt to conditions is less optimal than the artificial environment being adapted to the animal.
All that said, I myself would love to do a coldwater SW set up some day myself, and "more power" to anyone who does so themselves too (as long as it's done "properly").
There ... now I've said my piece. Oh, and yah. "Chill." Isn't that what we're talking about anyhow?????
