Just thought this was an interesting small article.
http://glassbox-design.com/2010/5-reasons-not-to-buy-japanese-corals/
5 Reasons NOT to Buy “Japanese” Corals
#1 | They are ILLEGAL.
Yes, the export of live coral from Japan is illegal. By buying Japanese corals you are supporting a black market that is giving this industry and hobby a black eye.
#2 | It’s probably not from Japan.
We’re not sure which is worse, that most of the corals are not illegal or that livestock retailers will do anything for a sale. Do livestock retailers lie to its customers? Sadly, yes.
#3 | Unethical stores use the marketing term, or, buy the illegal animals.
If the retailer is outside of Japan and selling corals “from Japan,” they are either selling illegal animals or lying. Is that a business you wish to support? What does that say about their credibility in terms of animal care or customer service in the event of coral mortality?
#4 | If truly Japanese = Longer Supply Chain
As live coral exports from Japan are illegal, they are often first shipped to a neighboring country and then to the final destination under false paperwork. This means more time in bags, more shipping and more stress to the animal.
#5 | See #1 & 2!
Recently the craze has been deepwater Japanese zoanthids. The large majority are neither from Japan or collected in deepwater. If you see a retailer using the word Japanese I would urge you to avoid them, or better yet–ask them for paperwork!