Find HS Code and trade information for simulated coral

Simulated Coral

Simulated coral encompasses a range of artificial coral products designed to replicate the appearance and often the function of natural coral reefs. These are primarily used in aquariums, but also find applications in scientific research, art, and increasingly, reef restoration projects.

Material

The materials used in simulated coral construction vary significantly depending on the desired quality, durability, and application. Common materials include:

• Resin: Polyester, epoxy, and acrylic resins are frequently used due to their moldability, ability to accept pigments for realistic coloration, and relative inertness in aquatic environments. Higher quality resins are non-toxic and do not leach harmful chemicals.
• Concrete: Often used for larger structures intended for reef restoration, concrete provides a robust and stable base. Special formulations are used to minimize alkalinity and create a porous surface suitable for coral larvae attachment.
• Ceramic: Provides a durable, inert, and often highly detailed structure. Ceramic corals are often used in high-end aquariums.
• Plastics: Less expensive options often utilize various plastics, though these can be less durable and may leach chemicals. PVC is a common choice.
• Hydrostone/Cement: Used for creating realistic textures and shapes, often as a base material for resin coating.

Purpose

• Aquarium Decoration: The primary use is to provide a visually appealing and biologically relevant environment for marine fish and invertebrates. Simulated coral provides shelter, hiding places, and surfaces for algae growth, mimicking a natural reef ecosystem.
• Reef Restoration: Increasingly, artificial reefs made from concrete or other materials are deployed to provide a substrate for coral larvae settlement and growth, aiding in the recovery of damaged reefs.
• Scientific Research: Used in laboratory settings to study coral growth, water flow dynamics, and the effects of environmental changes on reef ecosystems.
• Art & Display: Used in artistic installations and displays to showcase the beauty and diversity of coral reefs.

Function

• Shelter & Hiding Places: Provides refuge for fish and invertebrates from predators and strong currents.
• Territorial Boundaries: Allows fish to establish territories and reduces aggression.
• Surface for Biofilm Growth: Provides a substrate for the growth of beneficial bacteria and algae, contributing to the aquarium's biological filtration.
• Water Flow Manipulation: The shape and structure of simulated coral can influence water flow patterns within an aquarium, creating areas of varying current strength.
• Larval Settlement (Restoration): Porous surfaces encourage the attachment and growth of coral larvae in reef restoration projects.

Usage Scenarios

• Marine Aquariums: Saltwater fish tanks, reef tanks, and invertebrate tanks.
• Public Aquariums: Large-scale displays and exhibits.
• Reef Restoration Sites: Deployment in damaged reef ecosystems.
• Research Laboratories: Controlled experiments and studies.
• Home Decoration: Less common, but used in some cases for decorative purposes.

Common Types

• Branching Corals: Resemble species like Acropora and Pocillopora, providing a complex structure for fish to navigate.
• Plate Corals: Flat, disc-shaped corals that provide a large surface area for algae growth.
• Mushroom Corals: Resemble species like Discosoma and Fungia, often with a fleshy appearance.
• Brain Corals: Resemble species like Diploria and Platygyra, with a convoluted surface.
• Rock Structures: Artificial rock formations designed to resemble natural reef outcroppings, often incorporating coral shapes and textures.
• Modular Reef Systems: Interlocking pieces that allow for customizable reef layouts.

Simulated coral refers to artificial coral products, typically used for decoration, aquarium landscaping, or craft projects. The material composition can vary, but it is designed to replicate the appearance of natural coral.

The following HS codes may be relevant:

• 9601908000: This code covers worked ivory, bone, tortoise-shell, horn, antlers, coral, mother-of-pearl and other animal carving material, and articles of these materials (including articles obtained by molding). “Coral” is explicitly mentioned within this description, suggesting it applies to both natural and potentially worked/simulated coral. The total tax rate is 41.2% (Base tariff: 3.7%, Additional tariff: 7.5%, Additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30%).
• 3824994140: This code covers prepared binders for foundry molds or cores; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries (including those consisting of mixtures of natural products), not elsewhere specified or included. Specifically, it details fatty substances of animal or vegetable origin and mixtures thereof, including mixtures of fatty acid esters. If the simulated coral is manufactured using these chemical substances, this HS code may be applicable. The total tax rate is 59.6% (Base tariff: 4.6%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30%).
• 3825900100: This code covers residual products of the chemical or allied industries, not elsewhere specified or included; municipal waste; sewage sludge; other wastes specified in note 6 to this chapter. If the simulated coral is a byproduct of a chemical process or considered waste material, this HS code might be relevant. The total tax rate is 55.0% (Base tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30%).

Regarding HS code 9601908000, please note that the description includes "other animal carving material," which may require verification of the simulated coral's composition to confirm its classification.