Here is the link to the thread where you asked that
http://www.canreef.com/phpBB2/viewto...=2896&start=15
And Here is the reply I typed in over there
Quote:
hey some what related to zoos but des any one know the rules about bringing corals from the usa to canada ?
The short answer is "don't." Most corals are on the CITES list (Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species), which means you cannot import them without the proper CITES permits (expensive). Without these permits, and if you are determined to be carrying endangered species, or any products made from endangered species, or by-products of endangered species, (e.g., boots made from alligator skin, or anything made of ivory, or, seeds of a plant, cuttings of a plant, corals, cuttings of a coral, live rock [live rock used to be coral], live sand, ... etc. you get the idea] .... you risk having your goods seized and destroyed, plus risk having severe fines, and possibly face even jail time.
It's not worth the risk!! Support the Canadian companies who do go through the hassle of importing legally, they need our support to make their efforts worthwhile.
For more info see www.cites.org
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Just some more info since I don't feel like getting back to work just yet.
You asked where the good reefs are. Well I haven't been on the Pacific side of Mexico but I have been to the Yucatan peninsula (I haven't actually stayed in Cancun other than passing through the airport -- I went south to Playa Del Carmen, the "Mayan Riviera" area).
That whole area is nothing short of fantastic in my view. Incredible history, incredible geography, and yes incredible snorkeling/diving. Cozumel (the island just off the area) is also supposed to be just incredible.
Anyways if you go there the experience will totally spoil you. There is NOTHING like just walking off the beach, snorkeling, and being right on top of a barrier reef.
Just for comparison's sake .... I have also dived on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and while it is the most amazing system of reefs on this PLANET ... you have to take a boat ride for at least an hour offshore to get there. So in Australia you have to count on paying someone $100 just so you can go see the reef. In Mexico, no, none of that. The reef, it's RIGHT THERE. Of course there are no giant clams or clownfish in hosting anemones, but there are other things that are so spectacular, it doesn't matter.
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Anyways, as Doug said. Take only pictures and memories, leave behind only footprints (and keep your footprints small, too.
). Don't even take any sand home. Not even "just one rock." (Imagine if EVERYONE took "just one rock.") Leave it all as you found it, and thus you will have a reason to return again and again.
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Have a great time, where-ever place you end up going... 8)