Shell collecting laws

[david touitou]

Hello All,

Many countries protect marine living animals ans especially shells, corals,... which is a good thing for the worldwide nature. But laws vary a lot from one country to one other.
A worldwide rule though is that shelling is forbidden while scuba. Martinique, shelling is possible, Guadeloupe too but Reunion island no (even if all of them are French departments).
Always be careful ! I kow one who have been is jail in Solomons and they burnt his collected shells (<i>aurantium</i>,...).
Often "locals" do no like when some collect in their country and
can go to see the police/customs...

Bye
DAVID