Mystery Snail
Mystery Snails (Pomacea bridgesii) are freshwater apple snails with distinctive spiral shells, imported for algae control and aesthetic appeal in home aquariums. They are classified as live ornamental aquatic animals under tariff item 0301.19.00, which covers 'other' ornamental fish, despite being molluscs rather than fish.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | +25.0% | 25% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the snails are imported for human consumption or as food products
Live ornamental snails fall under heading 03.01; snails for food are classified under molluscs in heading 03.07.
If the snails are mistakenly declared as fish species like goldfish
This alternative covers only fish, not snails, so it would not apply.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify that the snails are alive and free of pests or disease at the border; dead specimens may be classified under Chapter 5
• Provide the scientific name (Pomacea bridgesii) and country of origin to expedite CBSA clearance
• Be aware that some provinces restrict certain apple snail species; check local regulations before importing
Related Products under Tariff item 0301.19.00
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos (Ancistrus spp.) are freshwater catfish known for their algae-eating habits and distinctive whisker-like bristles, making them popular in ornamental aquariums. They are live fish classified under tariff item 0301.19.00 as 'Other' ornamental fish, not covered by more specific headings.
Cherry Shrimp
Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are small, bright red freshwater invertebrates widely kept in planted aquariums for their ornamental value and algae-eating habits. Although they are crustaceans, they are classified as live ornamental aquatic animals under tariff item 0301.19.00, which covers 'other' ornamental fish in the Customs Tariff of Canada.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.) are peaceful, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish with whiskered appearance, commonly kept in community tanks. They are live ornamental fish falling under tariff item 0301.19.00 as 'Other' ornamental fish, excluding those specified in other headings.
Endler's Livebearer
Endler's Livebearers (Poecilia wingei) are colorful, prolific freshwater fish from Venezuela, popular for breeding and ornamental aquariums. They are live ornamental fish classified under tariff item 0301.19.00 as 'Other', not falling under more specific headings.
Glass Catfish
Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) are unique ornamental fish with transparent bodies, often kept in schools in aquariums. They are live fish classified under tariff item 0301.19.00 as 'Other' ornamental fish, not specified elsewhere.
Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin Rasboras (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) are small, schooling freshwater fish with distinctive orange-black patterns, popular in community aquariums. They are live ornamental fish under tariff item 0301.19.00 as 'Other', not covered by more specific headings.