Find HS Code and trade information for fish tank decorations

Fish Tank Decorations

Fish tank decorations, also known as aquarium ornaments, are items placed within an aquarium to enhance its aesthetic appeal, provide shelter for fish and invertebrates, and create a more natural or themed environment. They range widely in material, function, and design.

Materials

• Resin: The most common material due to its affordability, durability, and ability to be molded into complex shapes. Resin decorations are generally non-toxic but should be sourced from reputable manufacturers to ensure they are aquarium-safe.
• Plastic: Lightweight and inexpensive, but may lack the detail and realism of resin. Some plastics can leach chemicals into the water, so aquarium-safe varieties are essential.
• Ceramic: Offers a more natural look and is generally inert, but can be fragile and more expensive. Often used for pots or more substantial structures.
• Wood: Provides a natural aesthetic and can contribute to water chemistry (e.g., tannins from driftwood). Requires preparation (soaking, boiling) to reduce leaching and prevent decay. Popular choices include driftwood, mopani wood, and bogwood.
• Stone: Offers a natural, heavy base and can provide a realistic environment. Rocks should be aquarium-safe (avoid those containing limestone or other reactive minerals). Slate, river rocks, and lava rock are common.
• Glass: Primarily used for decorative elements like sculptures or bubblers. Inert and visually appealing.
• Metal: Less common due to the risk of corrosion. Stainless steel is sometimes used for specific features, but careful selection and monitoring are crucial.

Purpose and Function

• Aesthetic Enhancement: Decorations improve the visual appeal of the aquarium, creating a more pleasing environment for the observer.
• Shelter and Security: Provide hiding places for fish, reducing stress and allowing them to feel more secure. Crucial for shy or territorial species.
• Territorial Boundaries: Can be used to define territories within the tank, reducing aggression between fish.
• Enrichment: Offer varied environments, stimulating natural behaviors like exploration and foraging.
• Water Quality: Some decorations, like wood, can impact water chemistry, providing beneficial tannins or altering pH levels. Others can serve as surfaces for beneficial bacteria to colonize.

Usage Scenarios

• Freshwater Aquariums: The most common application, with a wide range of decorations available to suit various themes (e.g., jungle, ruins, caves).
• Saltwater Aquariums: Decorations must be compatible with saltwater conditions and not harm coral or invertebrates. Natural rock structures are often preferred.
• Planted Aquariums: Decorations should complement the plants and not obstruct their growth or access to light. Wood and rock structures are frequently used.
• Species-Specific Tanks: Decorations should cater to the specific needs of the fish. For example, caves for plecos, or sturdy structures for cichlids.

Common Types

• Rocks and Caves: Natural or artificial structures providing shelter and a natural aesthetic.
• Driftwood: Provides tannins, alters water chemistry, and offers a natural appearance.
• Artificial Plants: Low-maintenance alternative to live plants, available in various shapes and colors.
• Ruins and Castles: Thematic decorations creating a specific environment.
• Bubblers and Air Stones: Decorative elements that add aeration and visual interest.
• Backgrounds: Backdrops creating depth and enhancing the overall appearance.
• Gravel and Substrate: While primarily functional, can contribute to the aesthetic appeal.
• Themed Sets: Pre-packaged collections of decorations designed for specific themes (e.g., pirate ship, sunken city).

Fish tank decorations fall under various classifications depending on their material and specific nature. Here's a breakdown of potential HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 9507908000: This code covers “Fishing rods, fish hooks and other line fishing tackle; fish landing nets, butterfly nets and similar nets; decoy "birds" (other than those of heading 9208 or 9705) and similar hunting or shooting equipment; parts and accessories thereof: Other: Other, including parts and accessories: Other, including parts and accessories”. While primarily for fishing, decorations could fall under “other accessories” if directly related to fish keeping within a tank. The total tax rate is 39.0%.
• 6815994170: This code covers “Articles of stone or of other mineral substances (including carbon fibers, articles of carbon fibers and articles of peat), not elsewhere specified or included: Other articles: Other: Other Other”. If the decorations are made of stone or other mineral substances, this code applies. The total tax rate is 55.0%.
• 7326908688: This code covers “Other articles of iron or steel: Other: Other: Other: Other”. If the decorations are made of iron or steel, this code is applicable. The total tax rate is 82.9%. Note that steel and aluminum products have an additional 25% tariff.
• 3926904000: This code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Imitation gemstones”. If the decorations are made of plastic and resemble gemstones, this code may apply. The total tax rate is 32.8%.
• 7013993000: This code covers “Glassware of a kind used for table, kitchen, toilet, office, indoor decoration or similar purposes (other than that of heading 7010 or 7018): Other glassware: Other: Other: Smokers' articles; perfume bottles fitted with ground glass stoppers”. If the decorations are made of glass and used for indoor decoration, this code could be relevant. The total tax rate is 46.5%.

Important Considerations:

• The material composition of the fish tank decorations is crucial for accurate classification.
• Regarding HS code 7326908688, please note the additional 25% tariff applicable to steel and aluminum products.
• HS code 9507908000 is a broader category and may require careful consideration to ensure it accurately reflects the nature of the decorations.