Strasbourg, 3 October 2005                                                         T-PVS/Emerald (2005) 4 rev

[T-PVS/Emerald 04e.05 REV]                                                                                           English only

CONVENTION ON THE conservation of EUROPEAN wildlife

and natural habitats

Group of Experts for the setting up

of the Emerald Network of Areas of Special Conservation Interest

---ooOoo---

Emerald Network Pilot Project in Malta

- Report-

Document established by

the Malta Environment & Planning Authority

Aim

This report gives an overview of the work done in connection with the Emerald Network project in Malta. It also includes a brief description of each of the selected sites, focussing on their importance in view of their selection to form part of the Emerald Network.

Introduction

The Malta Environment & Planning Authority (MEPA), that was set up in March 2002 following the amalgamation of the former Environment Protection Department and Planning Authority, has been entrusted with the implementation of the Natura 2000 / Emerald Network in Malta. Thus, MEPA is to ensure that land use and the protection of the environment meet the needs of today's society and future communities. In the process, it has to ensure that a quality of life in harmony with the natural, cultural and built environment is achieved. Such a commitment has been assigned via the powers provided by the Development Planning Act (DPA) (Act I of 1992 as amended) and the Environment Protection Act (EPA) (Act XX of 2001).

MEPA is divided into three directorates, namely the Environment Protection Directorate (EPD), the Planning Directorate and the Corporate Services Directorate. The EPD, which is in turn divided into three main units, is responsible for environment protection matters and the implementation of the Environment Protection Act. The Nature Protection Unit (NPU) within EPD is the Unit responsible for nature protection in the Maltese Islands. Hence, the remits of NPU include, among others, the implementation of the EU Nature Protection Acquis and related international nature protection treaties and initiatives. This implies that, it is the remit of MEPA to implement the Emerald Network.

Background

The proposal for the establishment of the Network of Areas of Special Conservation Interest (ASCIs), otherwise known as the Emerald Network, was first launched in June 1989 when the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention, in response to an increasing need to protect natural habitats, held a meeting exclusively devoted to habitat conservation within the Convention.

Work for the establishment of the Network of Areas of Special Conservation Interest reassumed with the adoption of Resolution No. 3 (1996), when the Standing Committee to the Bern Convention resolved to "set up a network (Emerald Network) which would include the Areas of Special Conservation Interest designated following its Recommendation No. 16" (of 1989). The adopted resolution and recommendation provide the fundamental basis for the designation of Areas of Special Conservation Interest, but then, the responsibility to designate such areas lies with the government of the States concerned.

Since 1999, the Council of Europe provided financial support to a programme of pilot projects in order to be able to facilitate the process of implementing the Emerald Network, the main objective of which is to compile a pilot database with information about the areas in question.

The Emerald network is hence a network of Areas of Special Conservation Interest which is to be established in the territory of the contracting parties and observer states to the Bern Convention, including, among others, Central and Eastern European countries and the EU member states.

Implementation of the Emerald Network in Malta

Malta is one of the contracting parties to the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (the Bern Convention), having acceded this treaty on the 26^th November 1993 (entry into force: 1^st March 1994).

In its efforts for the protection of Maltese wildlife and natural habitats, Malta has entered into an agreement with the Council of Europe for the implementation of a pilot project on the setting up of the Emerald Network. In fact, Malta has gone a long way in the process of designating Areas of Special Conservation Interest and collating the relevant data.

In this respect, Mr Darrin T Stevens was nominated as the national Project Leader, and a scientific working group was instituted in March 2000, composed of members of the then Environment Protection Department and former Planning Authority[1], as well as members from the University of Malta, among others. This working group carried out the initial work, which included the:

Øpreparation of a list of habitats/biotopes found in the Maltese Islands, based upon the CORINE and Palaearctic Classifications (a list of Maltese habitats/biotopes was compiled by February 2001);

Øselection of those habitats falling within the criteria included in the Emerald Network;

Øformulation of a list of species included within the said network and found in the Maltese Islands.

The above led to the selection of Areas of Special Conservation Interest, which is the basis for the building up of the Emerald Network in Malta.

The pilot project was launched in Malta on the 15^th-16^th November 2001. A workshop was organized by the Council of Europe in collaboration with the then Environment Protection Department, during which the national team working on the Emerald Network at this stage was initiated to the Emerald principalities and technicalities by personnel from the Council of Europe. The Emerald software was explained and instructions were given concerning the scientific background of data collection.

With reference to the EU Natura 2000 Network, the Emerald Network can be considered as an extension of Natura 2000 principles to non-EU European countries. Both networks are based on the same criteria, but since the Emerald Network project is open to all Contracting parties and observer states to the Bern Convention it has a Pan-European character. Malta is cooperating in establishing the Pan-European Ecological Network, and being part of the European Union, the work on the Emerald Network in Malta is being done in parallel with the work related to the Natura 2000 Network.

In fact, the European Union is also part of the Emerald Network via provisions of various decisions and directives included in the environment acquis (e.g. 79/409/EEC; 82/72/EEC; 92/43/EC; 97/62/EC; 97/266/EC).

The Council of Europe has contributed to the application and development of the Palaearctic Habitat Classification while setting up the Emerald project for a number of countries, including for Malta, and hence this classification system was referred to continuously while working on the pilot project. Furthermore, datasheets and a software package have been prepared for the Emerald Network. Since the Natura 2000 database is very similar to that for the Emerald Network, and Malta is part of the European Union, the former database was used in Malta. This was agreed upon with the Council of Europe. Further information in relation to the proposed Areas of Conservation Interest, which is specifically related to Resolution No. 4 (1996) and Resolution No. 6 (1998), and which is not included in the datasheets being submitted, is being provided in this report.

The implementation of the Emerald Network thus involves a process aimed at setting up a network of protected sites, referred to as Areas of Special Conservation Interest, which is closely linked to the Natura 2000 Network. This process, for Malta, was divided into four main phases, as is depicted below:

1)   The selection of the sites eligible as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Areas of Special Conservation Interest (ASCIs);

2)   The setting up of appropriate legislation;

3)   The attainment of data in line with the requirements posed by the Standard Data Entry Forms;

4)   The inputting of data into the Emerald Network / Natura 2000 Software in the format of Standard Data Entry Forms.

Below is a brief description of the methodology adopted in Malta in order to achieve the above-mentioned phases.

1)            The selection of the Sites eligible as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Areas of Special Conservation Interest (ASCIs).

The first step taken in order to select sites of conservation interest was to collate existing ecological data on a number of sites and also to analyse the biotopes present in the Maltese Islands. To achieve the latter, surveys were carried out in order to identify potential Areas of Special Conservation Interest (and also SACs and SPAs). In fact, over the past years a detailed ecological survey was compiled for the entire of the Maltese Islands such that complete terrestrial habitats have been mapped in digital form by means of a Geographical Information System. Furthermore, some marine areas have also been surveyed and digitised; in particular a baseline survey of Posidonia oceanica (listed in Annex I of the Bern Convention) was commissioned and has been completed.

With the assistance of the Council of Europe (and the implementation of the Emerald Network), a number of scientific consultants were commissioned in order to assist MEPA during the above-mentioned surveys. Once this step was achieved, the potential sites were proposed for legal protection.

The selected sites (and the area of each) are depicted in Table 1. The main reasons for the selection of such sites, which altogether cover about 12% of the national territory, are also included in this report. A draft list of these sites was published under the provisions of the Environment Protection Act (Government Notice 877 of 2003) and this was subject to various levels of consultation:

Ø internally within MEPA;

Ø at the scientific level with local experts;

Ø public consultations – on a nation-wide level as per provisions of the Environment Protection Act;

Ø with the Maltese Government, in particular with the Ministry for Rural Affairs and the Environment.

An Area of Special Conservation Interest can be defined as any area, whether land or sea, where that area fits one of several conditions established in Recommendation No. 16 (1989) of the Bern Convention. Then, any such area can form part of the Emerald Network. However, it is here important to note that the selected sites for Malta include only terrestrial ones. Potential marine sites have been preliminarily identified too, but further surveys need to be accomplished in order to select the most appropriate marine Areas of Special Conservation Interest. Work in this respect is at advanced stage, also in view of additional funds provided by the Mediterranean Action Plan, the Regional Activity Centre for Special Protected Areas, and the European Union (through ERDF, LIFE Third and SMAP funding on the marine area around the island of Filfla, off Dwejra and in the marine area between Ras ir-Raheb and Rdum Majjiesa, respectively).

The conditions to designate Areas of Special Conservation Interest pointed clearly towards areas of a great ecological value for both the threatened and endemic species listed in the Appendices of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998), and the endangered habitat types that require specific conservation measures listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996). Thus, such criteria were thoroughly considered during this phase.

Table 1: Proposed Areas Of Special Conservation Interest / Special Areas Of Conservation, Including Individual Site Areas [as per GN 877 of 2003]

A complete list of the sites across the Maltese Islands that are protected by virtue of Maltese legislation has been compiled in connection with the Common Database on Designated Areas – CDDA. These sites fall under different protection categories, among them Strict Nature Reserve, Nature (Tree) Reserve, Special Area of Conservation, Site of Scientific Importance, Area of Ecological Importance and Bird Sanctuary.

2)            The setting up of legislation in order to identify species and habitats that require protection

In accordance with the provisions of the Environment Protection Act and the Development Planning Act, various regulations have been published in relation to the protection of flora, fauna and habitats. The main regulations are summarised in Table 2 below.

Table 2: Main Legislation that provides for the protection of Wildlife and their Natural Habitats

Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations [LN 257/03] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on 26th September 2003, except Part VII (not in force)
Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection (Declaration of SACs) Regulations [GN 877/03] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on 26th September 2003
Marine Mammals Protection Regulations [LN 203/2003] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on 12th August 2003
Capture and Killing Methods Prohibition Regulations [LN 167/2002] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published on the 28th June 2002 and entered into force on 14th January 2003 via LN 24/2003
Convention on Biological Diversity Incorporation Regulations [LN 160/2002] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published on the 28th June 2002 and entered into force on 28th June 2002 via LN 173/2002
Environment Impact Assessment Regulations [LN 204/2001] under the Development Planning Act (cap. 356)	Published and entered into force on 11th September 2001
Trees and Woodlands Protection Regulations LN 12/2001] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on the 30th January 2001
Flora and Fauna Protection Amendment Regulations [LN 161/1999] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on the 24th September 1999
Marine Vegetation Licence Regulations [LN 66/1997] under the Fisheries Conservation and Management Act (Cap. 425)	Published and entered into force on the 27th May 1997
Flora and Fauna Protection Regulations [LN 49/1993] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on the 13th April 1993
Reptiles Protection Regulations [LN 76/1992] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on the 11th August 1992
Selmunett Islands (St. Paul Islands) Nature Reserve Regulations [LN 25/1993] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on the 2nd March 1993
Fungus Rock (il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral) Nature Reserve Regulations [LN 22/1992] under the Environment Protection Act (cap. 435)	Published and entered into force on the 14th February 1992
Filfla Nature Reserve Act [Act XV of 1988] (cap. 323)	Published and entered into force on the 1st June 1988
Antiquarian Trees Regulations [GN 269/33] under the Antiquities Protection Act (cap. 54)	Published and entered into force on 19th July 1933
Wild Thyme Protection Regulations [GN 85/32] under the Code of Police Laws (cap. 10)	Published and entered into force on the 23rd March 1932

The most relevant and encompassing legislation in this respect is Legal Notice 257 of 2003, namely the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations, published on the 26^th September 2003 and entered into force immediately.

The said Legal Notice considers the following issues, amongst others:

Ø the setting up of a coherent ecological network in Malta;

Ø the protection of sites containing biotopes and species listed in its Schedules;

Ø the management of such protected areas;

Ø the setting up of a procedure that needs to be followed on the restriction of activities in protected areas;

Ø the setting up of a strict protection regime for certain species;

Ø the control of exploited species;

Ø the surveillance and monitoring, introduction and re-introduction of species;

Ø biodiversity communication and research;

Ø the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity;

Ø a permitting system.

In accordance with the provisions of the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations, 2003, the sites and areas identified as in need of special protection measures were designated as protected sites and declared as ‘Special Areas of Conservation’ via the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection (Declaration of Special Areas of Conservation) Regulations (Government Notice 877 of 2003), issued on the 26^th September 2003. Such sites shall be the main part of the National Ecological Network. As seen through the points above, this is one of the provisions of Legal Notice 257 of 2003. In Part II of the latter, it is pointed out that ‘The competent authority shall set up a coherent ecological network of special areas of conservation under the title of the National Ecological Network.’

This shall be carried out with the aim of contributing to the Pan-European Ecological Network [Regulation 4(4)] and ‘the Competent Authority shall propose to relevant international institutions or organisations the list of sites of International Importance’ [Regulation 4(5)]. This implies that MEPA has the remit of proposing those sites that should ideally be selected as Areas of Special Conservation Interest to the Council of Europe. The selected sites will form part of the Emerald Network, which is set up in line with the obligations of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, and hence aids in the setting up of the Pan-European Ecological Network.

Furthermore, Part III of Legal Notice 257 of 2003 grants that ‘For the purposes of the Development Planning Act and with respect to development plans or supplementary planning guidance prepared as a consequence thereto, the Competent Authority shall endeavour to develop policies in respect of the conservation of the natural beauty and amenity of the land which are of major importance for wild fauna and flora, with a view to improving the ecological coherence of the National Ecological Network and the Pan-European Ecological network’.

3)            The attainment of data in line with the requirements posed by the Standard Data Entry Forms

         &

4)            The inputting of data into the Emerald Network / Natura 2000 Software in the format of Standard Data Entry Forms

Species data has primarily been attained from publications about local flora, fauna and habitats and also from reliable records. Considering habitat data, a number of site visits were carried out in order to obtain detailed information about the habitat / biotope types within the proposed sites. Although most of the proposed sites have been visited and accordingly mapped, some survey work is still on-going for a few sites, particularly for the Coastal Cliffs of Malta and the islet of Filfla.

During this exercise, lists of important species present at the proposed sites were compiled, together with an estimation of their abundance, where possible. Site visits also allowed the identification of threats and their evaluation, to complement the information that was already available in this respect. An overall assessment of the conservation status of the site was also given, taking into consideration best expert judgement.

Since the exercise was essentially a scientific one, data was also collated by environment protection officers at MEPA with the assistance of expert consultants, the latter mainly from the University of Malta. Part of the sums for such commissioned studies were allocated through a grant of the Council of Europe as part of the Emerald Network pilot project itself.

The team gathered the necessary scientific / ecological data for the compilation of the Emerald Network datasheets. MEPA officials and the consultants form part of the Working Group for the Emerald Network project and several meetings have been held in view of this.

The national team[2] working on the Emerald Network pilot project includes:

–        Mr Darrin T Stevens, Malta Environment and Planning Authority [Project Leader];

–        Ms Marie Therese Gambin, Malta Environment and Planning Authority [Project Secretary];

–        Mr Alfred E Baldacchino, Malta Environment and Planning Authority [Bern Convention Focal Point];

–        Ms Joanna Borg, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Louis F Cassar, International Environment Institute;

–        Mr Charles Farrugia, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Ms Lisa Jane Gambin, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Edwin Lanfranco, University of Malta;

–        Ms Carmen Mifsud, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Prof Patrick J Schembri, University of Malta;

–        Ms Christine M Tanti, Malta Environment and Planning Authority.

Other main contributors to the final project, which were involved in view of their expertise or duties at some point of the project include:

–        Ms Carol Agius, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Rene Attard, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Emmanuel Borg, Environment Protection Department (*);

–        Mr John J Borg, Malta Bat Group;

–        Dr Simone Borg, Environment Protection Department (*);

–        Dr Godwin Cassar, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Stephen Conchin, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Ms Ashley Farrugia, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Dr Louise Farrugia, Environment Protection Department (*);

–        Mr Saviour Formosa, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Stanley Gatt, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Ms Claire Gauci, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Vincent Gauci, Environment Protection Department (*);

–        Ms Prassede Grech, Environment Protection Department (*);

–        Ms Odette Kerr, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Mr Adrian Mallia, Planning Authority (*);

–        Dr David Mifsud, Agriculture Services & Rural Development Division;

–        Mr Timothy Mifsud, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Ing Ray Piscopo, Malta Environment and Planning Authority (*);

–        Mr Kevin Portelli, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Ms Rachel Portelli, Planning Authority (*);

–        Mr Martin Psaila, Environment Protection Department (*);

–        Ms Miraine Rizzo, Malta Environment and Planning Authority;

–        Dr Ian Stafrace, Legal Consultant.

The filling in of the Standard Data Forms was the result of various activities, which ranged from data collection from bibliographical sources to commissioned studies and a series of detailed surveys. These were essential in order to identify and quantify, where possible within the project timeframe, important species and habitats in the selected sites, produce biotope maps and identify threats affecting each site.

Surveying of the selected ASCIs and hence biotope mapping, as well as the filling in of the Standard Data Entry Forms has been essentially completed. However, certain gaps still prevail in the data that has been compiled. An overview of this is given in this report (Refer to the section on ‘Foreseen Improvements’).

Habitats listed in Resolution No.4 (1996) and Species listed in the Appendices of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No.6 (1998) that are found within the Maltese Islands

The following tables indicate the habitats and species that are listed in the Resolution and Convention indicated and which are present within the Maltese Islands.

Table 3: Main Habitat Types listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996) listing endangered natural habitats requiring specific conservation measures and that are found within the Maltese Islands

Code	Habitat type
11.22	Sublittoral soft seabeds
11.24	Sublittoral rocky seabeds and kelp forests
11.25	Sublittoral organogenic concretions
11.26	Sublittoral cave communities
11.27	Soft sediment littoral communities
11.3	Sea-grass meadows
12.7	Sea-caves
13.2	Estuaries
15.5	Mediterranean salt meadows
15.8	Mediterranean salt steppes
16.2	Dunes
16.3	Humid dune-slacks
21	Coastal lagoons
22.341	Short Mediterranean amphibious swards
22.4321	Water crowfoot communities
22.44	Chandelier algae submerged carpets (but in small basins/pools)
32.22	Tree-spurge formations
32.24	Palmetto brush (extinct)
32.25	Mediterranean pre-desert scrub
33	Phrygana
34.5	Mediterranean xeric grasslands
37.4	Mediterranean tall humid grasslands
42.846	Sicilian Aleppo pine woods
44.1	Riparian willow formations (relict formations with Salix pedicellata)
45	Temperate Broad-Leaved Evergreen Forests
65	Caves

Table 4: Flora species under Appendix I of the Bern Convention and/or Resolution No. 6 (1998) listing the species requiring specific habitat conservation measures found and/or reported within the Maltese Islands.

Note

P         included in Bern Convention Appendices and/or Resolution, as relevant;

(P)      included in Resolution No. 6 (1998) but in the ‘List of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix 1 of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention’ ;

O         not included in Resolution No. 6 (1998);

(*)       species followed by this sign refer to old unconfirmed records from the Maltese Islands; no extant populations of such taxa are known from the Maltese Islands.

Table 5:Fauna species under Appendix II of the Bern Convention and/or Resolution No. 6 (1998) listing the species requiring specific habitat conservation measures found and/or reported within the Maltese Islands.

Note

P         included in Bern Convention Appendices and/or Resolution, as relevant;

(P)      included in Resolution No. 6 (1998) but in the ‘List of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix 1 of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention’ ;

O         not included in Resolution No. 6 (1998);

(*)       species followed by this sign refer to old unconfirmed records from the Maltese Islands, some of which are possibly misidentifications;

(+)       species followed by this sign refer to recent introductions to the Maltese Islands;

($)       species followed by this sign refer to species that have been sporadically recorded from the Maltese Islands, and whose records have been scientifically authenticated.

Table 6: Fauna species under Appendix III of the Bern Convention and/or Resolution No. 6 (1998) listing the species requiring specific habitat conservation measures found and/or reported within the Maltese Islands

Note

P         included in Bern Convention Appendices and/or Resolution, as relevant;

(P)      included in Resolution No. 6 (1998) but in the ‘List of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix 1 of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention’ ;

O         not included in Resolution No. 6 (1998).

Brief Description of each Site including Reasons why each Site was Selected

Note on reptiles

A number of reptiles found within the Maltese Islands are listed in the Bern Convention and/or Resolution No. 6 (1998). Below is a list of those reptile species for which a specific subspecies is present within the Maltese Islands, and the subspecies name is being indicated accordingly.

Coluber viridiflavus	Coluber viridiflavus carbonarius
Hemidactylus turcicus	Hemidactylus turcicus turcicus
Telescopus fallax	Telescopus fallax fallax
Chalcides ocellatus	Chalcides ocellatus tiligugu
Podarcis filfolensis	Podarcis filfolensis filfolensis Podarcis filfolensis generalensis Podarcis filfolensis kieselbachi Podarcis filfolensis maltensis
	The subspecies present depends on the island of the Maltese archipelago on which this species is found. A fifth subspecies, P. f. laurentimuelleri, is reported from the islands of Linosa and Lampione (Pelagian Islands, Italy).

Il-Buskett - Girgenti Area

Buskett is a large valley system that supports, among other habitats, a native Populetum albae riparian woodland vegetation and a naturalised Pinus halepensis woodland. In fact, this proposed ASCI consists mainly of a prime woodland area, the largest one across the Maltese Islands, which was originally planted but which has been naturalised and is regenerating. A forest remnant of Quercus ilex is also present, as well as maquis based on Laurus nobilis, Pistacia lentiscus and Ceratonia siliqua. This area also supports the habitat type phrygana mentioned in Resolution No. 4 (1996).

Kamenitzas and caves (the latter is listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996)) are further habitat types found at this locality, both of which are important habitats since they support endemic, rare and/or threatened species.

This site is being proposed as an ASCI due to the presence of the above-mentioned habitats and due to the fact that it is home to various threatened species, such as the sub-endemic orchid Ophrys lunulata (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

Among the reptiles present at this site are Chamaeleo chamaeleon and Podarcis filfolensis (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No.6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix 1 of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention), Chalcides ocellatus, Coluber viridiflavus, (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) Hemidactylus turcicus and Tarentola mauritanica (both covered by Appendix III of the Bern Convention).

Atelerix algirus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), as well as Mustela nivalis and Suncus etruscus (both listed in Appendix III of the Bern Convention) are also known from the site. The amphibian Discoglossus pictus pictus, listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention, is also present.   

Buskett is also internationally important as a concentration point for a number of migrating birds of prey. Among the birds listed in Resolution No.6 (1998) and present at this site, one finds Falco naumanni, Falco biarmicus, Falco eleonorae, Crex crex, Cursorius cursor, Pernis apivorus and Acrocephalus paludicola. The former four species are also listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention.

A cave at Girgenti area is a very important site for bats and cave-dwelling invertebrates, some of which are endemics and known only from this cave. Bats known from this site include Myotis blythii and Rhinolophus hipposideros  that are both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No.6 (1998), as well as Plecotus austriacus andPipistrellus pygmaeus which are covered by Appendix II and Appendix III of the Bern Convention respectively (Pipistrellus pygmaeus is listed as Pipisrellus pipistrellus). Furthermore, a permanent freshwater spring in the area of Girgenti supports various species that are associated with the presence of freshwater. Due to the dearth of such habitat types in the Maltese Islands, the species found here are very rare as well as threatened.   

Il-Ballut (l/o Marsaxlokk)

  

Il-Ballut was originally a series of fishponds. A quay and the present day marsh were formed following dredging and site engineering works to make way for a quay in the 1950s. It eventually developed into a marshland owing to the presence of a seasonal watercourse bringing freshwater in. The marsh area was later extended by further habitat engineering and is now known to support interesting communities of scientific and ecological importance, especially since plant communities here show a remarkable difference to those found in the northern part of the island of Malta. This suggests a restricted distribution of the biota found at Il-Ballut. In fact, it includes the best Mediterranean salt meadows of the Maltese Islands, with the very rare Juncus maritimus. Mediterranean salt meadows are listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996) as endangered natural habitats requiring specific conservation measures.

 

The marsh is also very important for a number of invertebrates associated with saline marshlands, including beetles and gastropods, some of which also have a restricted distribution in the Maltese Islands. The beetle Brachygluta simplex hipponensis is one such example since it is recorded only from il-Ballut and two other localities in the Maltese Islands. The amphibian Discoglossus pictus pictus, listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention, is known from this site too.   

Il-Ballut tal-Wardija (l/o San Pawl il- Baħar)

This selected ASCI comprises one of the four remaining Holm Oak forest remnants in the Maltese Islands. These include the oldest Holm Oak trees of the Maltese Islands, that are estimated to be between 500-900 years old, and which have been declared as 'National Monuments' since 1933.

The site is particularly important for certain types of species like fungi, xylophilous species, saproxylic species and cryptofauna. Furthermore, the bat Eptesicus serotinus has only been recorded from this site, while the amphibian Discoglossus pictus pictus and the reptile Chamaeleo chamaeleon are also present at this site. All three species are listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention.

Il-Magħluq tal-Baħar

This site constitutes a small saline marshland (Mediterranean salt meadows – Resolution No. 4 (1996)) where a brackish water pool supports peculiar salt-tolerant marsh communities and critically endangered protected species, such as Aphanius fasciatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)). It also supports an important community of halophilic species, such as Juncus maritimus and Ruppia maritima, both of which have a restricted distribution across the Maltese Islands. Part of the area can be considered to be a coastal lagoon, another habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996).

Furthermore, il-Magħluq is one of the few localities for the Brackish water Spire shell Hydrobia ventrosa and one of two localities (across the Maltese Islands) for the very rare Siculo-Maltese endemic woodlouse Miktoniscus melitensis. Podarcis filfolensis maltensis, the Maltese Wall Lizard (listed as Podarcis filfolensis in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 of 1998 in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix 1 of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention) and Chalcides ocellatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) are known from this site.

Il-Maqluba (l/o Qrendi)

This location is very peculiar as it consists of a deep, large-scale inland collapsed solution structure, and it is probably a doline. This geological structure, which is of particular interest due to it being the largest conspicuous doline completely isolated from the sea, potentially provides a habitat that is unique within the Maltese Islands.

Important plant species present at this site include Tetraclinis articulata (only a few individuals are present; listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention), the endemic plants Darniella melitensis and Chiliadenus bocconei, and the rare Siculo-Maltese endemic Iris sicula.

 

A number of important fungi are also present at this area, among which are Daldinia concentrica, Amanita verna, Diachaea leucopodia, Hypoxylon sp., Aleuria aurantia, Phallus impudicus and Psathyrella melanthina.

With respect to fauna, some interesting species occur at this site too, such as   Strumigenys lewisi (this ant is only found at il-Maqluba), Deroceras golcheri (an endemic slug), Bathytropa schembrii, Leptothorax rabaudi, Paratrechina longicornis, and Lepismachilis sp..

Is-Salini

This site constitutes the largest of the remaining coastal salt marshes (Mediterranean salt meadows – a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996)) of the Maltese Islands and is home to a number of rare habitats and species. It is considered to be a coastal lagoon, a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996) as a habitat that requires specific conservation measures. The site, in particular the salt pans and salt marsh area, is an important ornithological site for migratory birds. It is also an important habitat for salt marsh and brackish water species, such as the very rare Borrer's saltmarsh grass Puccinellia fasciculata and the Sea couch Elytrigia flaccidifolia. The marsh also hosts the most important Maltese population of the Killifish Aphanius fasciatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

Endemics recorded from this locality include the snails Trochoidea spratti and Muticaria macrostoma, and the plants Anthemis urvilleana and Chiliadenus bocconei.

A considerable number of invertebrates, especially insects, have also been recorded from Salini. Most of these are typical of salt marsh areas and thus occur only at this site. They include the earwig Anisolabis maritima, the jumping spider Neaetha membrosa, the grasshoppper Heteracris adspersa, the sand hopper Gammarus aequicauda and the staphylinid beetle Querdius simplicifrons.

 

Is-Simar (l/o San Pawl il-Baħar)

Is-Simar supports one of the most important saline marshlands in the Maltese Islands, and is considered to be a combination of a coastal lagoon and an estuary, both habitats listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996). The marshland is particularly important as it provides an adequate habitat for Aphanius fasciatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

In addition, it supports an adequate habitat for a number of migratory bird species that are associated with reeds, especially rails, bitterns, moorhens and warblers. Is-Simar is one of the few places in the Maltese Islands where such migrating birds are able to stop in order to rest and feed. A few of the birds that are present at this site and are listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and also in Resolution No. 6 (1998) are Alcedo atthis, Ardea purpurea, Ardeola ralloides, Calandrella brachydactyla, Egretta alba, Egretta garzetta, Nycticorax nycticorax, Porzana parva, Porzana porzana, Tringa glareola, Falco vespertinus, Ixobrychus minutus, Luscinia svecica, Gallinago media and Botaurus stellaris. These are just a few of the birds that might be observed at this site.

The steppe / garigue habitat at this site provides an important habitat for a number of reptiles, mainly Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus (covered through Appendix III of the Bern Convention), as well as Chalcides ocellatus, Telescopus fallax, Coluber viridiflavus (all listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) and Elaphe situla (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)). The mammals Suncus etruscus and Pipistrellus pygmaeus (both covered by the Bern Convention Appendix III; Pipistrellus pygmaeus is listed as Pipistrellus pipistrellus) are known from the site.

L-Għadira Area

This area has been proposed as an ASCI in view of the fact that part of it supports perennial pools, which attract birds, and hence it is home to various protected species.  The wetland area present at this site can be referred to as an estuary / coastal  lagoon / Mediterranean salt meadow, all habitats listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996) and is particularly important since it provides an adequate habitat for, Aphanius fasciatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

L-Għadira is one of the few places in the Maltese Islands where a number of migrating birds can stop to rest and feed. In fact, the wetland area provides adequate habitat for a number of migratory bird species, in particular waders, rails, bitterns, moorhens and reed-associated warblers. Charadius dubius, a migratory bird, has recently started to breed on shingle beaches created purposely within the wetland.

A few of the birds that have been observed at this site and which are listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and also in Resolution No. 6 (1998) are Ardea purpurea, Ardeola ralloides, Egretta alba, Egretta garzetta, Nycticorax nycticorax, Porzana porzana, Tringa glareola, Falco naumanni, Falco vespertinus, Alcedo atthis, Phoenicopterus rubber, Ixobrychus minutus, Larus genei, Larus melanocephalus, Luscinia svecica, Gallinago media andSterna caspia. The species listed here are just a few of the birds that might be observed at the marshland present at this site.

The surroundings of the wetland area are also protected, and include clay slopes, phrygana (a habitat type listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996)) and a garigue habitat that is very species-rich and that supports a number of rare species. The latter include the only remaining population of the sub-endemic orchid Ophrys oxyrrhynchos and the very rare orchid Barlia robertiana. The site is also one of the few known localities for the endemic form of Orobanche densiflora. In addition, the sand dune area (a habitat type listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996)) at this site supports rare sand dune species including plants and invertebrates. For example, within the Maltese Islands, the plant species Ruppia drepanensis and Euphorbia terracina are found only at this site. There are also a number of additional plant species that have been recorded only from a few sites other than from Għadira.

The garigue area also provides suitable breeding ground for Calandrella brachydactyla and provides an important habitat for a number of reptiles. The latter include Chalcides ocellatus, Telescopus fallax, Coluber viridiflavus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Elaphe situla (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)) and Chamaeleo chamaleon (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention). Also present are Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus (both are listed in Appendix III of the Bern Convention).

Bat species recorded from L-Għadira Area are Myotis blythii, Rhinolophus hipposideros (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)), Pipistrellus kuhlii, Plecotus austriacus (both protected under the Bern Convention - Appendix II) and Pipistrellus pygmaeus (covered by Appendix III of the Bern Convention – listed as Pipistrellus pipistrellus).

L-Għadira s-Safra

Although a very small area, this site constitutes a unique transitional coastal wetland that supports biotic assemblages that are typical of freshwater habitats at one time of the year (during the wet period) but are typical of habitats with fluctuating salinity at other times. The site also consists of a gently sloping rocky shore.

Very rare and protected flora and fauna are present at this site, in particular Riella helicophylla (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)), a liverwort that is confined to this locality only in the Maltese Islands. L-Għadira s-Safra is also one of the two localities for the locally endangered Prickle Grass, Crypsis aculeata.

This wetland also supports the shrimps Triops cancriformis, Branchipus schaefferi and Branchipus visnyai, rare fauna typical of freshwater conditions rather than the prevailing saline environment. The endangered woodlouse Tylos latreillei sardous is also present, apart from other important species.

L-Imġiebaħ/Tal-Miġnuna Area

Spanning a total area of 176.5ha, this site encompasses various habitats, including remnants of a Holm Oak forest and phrygana (a habitat type listed in Resolution No. 4 (1998)).  Native Tamarix africana stands are also present.

The sea-cliffs in the area support the endemic flora Limonium melitensis, Limonium zeraphae and Euphorbia melitensis close to the cliffs. In addition, other national Red Data Book-listed species are found at this site, including the endemic plants Chiliadenus bocconei and Anacamptis urvilleana, as well as the sub-endemic plant Daucus rupestris. Listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention as well as in Resolution No. 6 (1998) and recorded from this site is the reptile Elaphe situla.

Ix-Xagħra tal-Kortin

This locality is a coastal site, the coastline of which is a mosaic of boulders, stones, dry gorges and clefts that provide a typical habitat for a boulder scree community, with the flora here being in pristine condition due to the fact that the area is relatively inaccessible. Vegetation found on the boulder screes include typical cliff communities based upon the endemic plant Chiliadenus bocconei, as well as spurge communities intermixed with phrygana (a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1998)). It is also the only cliff vegetation with the endemic Matthiola incana melitensis. Other endemic species found at this site are Darniella melitensis and Anacamptis urvilleana. Periploca angustifolia forms the dominant garigue species at Ix-Xagħra tal-Kortin, and together with Erica multiflora, which grows in this area as very dense shrubs, adds on to the importance of the site in question.

Part of the site is a valley, Wied tal-Mistra, which grades into a coastal marshland on approaching the sea and ends at the shingle beach at Qala tal-Mistra. Only a remnant of the original saline marshland prevails here. The saline marshland is an important habitat in the local context due to the halophilic community of plant and animal species it supports. These species are either only known from this valley or else have a limited distribution in the Maltese Islands.

A few reptiles have been recorded from this site. These are Chalcides ocellatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Tarentola mauritanica (covered through Appendix III of the Bern Convention) and Podarcis filfolensis maltensis (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention).

Pembroke Area

The mosaic of shallow karstic terrain and deep karren formations at Pembroke has created a blend of garigue and rocky steppe. A watercourse is also present at this site, however, the vegetation is not characteristic of such a habitat.

The garigue is co-dominated by Anthyllis hermanniae (forming phrygana – a habitat type listed in Resolution No. 4 (1998)) and Thymus capitatus, the latter being an important floristic element of the Maltese Islands. Pembroke supports a number of endemic species such as Allium lojaconoi, Serapias vomeracea and Chiliadenus bocconei. Furthermore, a very small, endangered population of Sarcopoterium spinosum is present and this species is unknown from any other locality in the Maltese Islands, and it also forms the basis of a phrygana type of habitat. A number of other rare plant species are also found, including Ophrys speculum, Catananche lutea and Scilla sicula.

The rainwater rockpools that form on the karstland at Pembroke are expected to be important for fauna that are linked to such habitats, many of which are listed in the national Red Data Book. Also, apart from a diverse array of rock pool species, the Pelago-Maltese endemic plant Elatine gussonei has been recorded at Pembroke.

The reptiles Chamaleo chamaleon, Podarcis filfolensis (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention), Chalcides ocellatus, Coluber viridiflavus (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) and Tarentola mauritanica (listed in Appendix III of the Bern Convention) are known from this site.

Ramla Tat-Torri / Rdum tal-Madonna Area

This site represents a variety of coastal habitats. The southern part consists of an upper coralline limestone cliff / boulder scree community that gradually changes to rocky coast along the northern part. A sand dune community is also found along the northern coast at Ramla tat-Torri, and this represents one of the very few sand dunes (a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1998)) that is left on the island of Malta. It supports locally rare sand dune plant species like Eryngium maritimum and Pancratium maritimum and is home to the endemic plant Orobanche densiflora forma melitensis. The sandy area is important for several species of Hymenoptera (Insecta) that are restricted to sand dune habitats.

The Rdum tal-Madonna area is one of the most important bird areas in the Maltese Islands as it supports large colonies of threatened sea-birds. Among these are a number of species that are listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and also in Resolution No. 6 (1998), and these are Calandrella brachydactyla, Calonectris diomedea, Falco peregrinus and Puffinus yelkouan.

The cliff faces in the area support a typical rupestral community, while the exposed rocky shore is colonized by an aerohaline community. Maritime garigue is found further inland, as is phrygana (a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996)). Such habitats support a number of threatened species, mostly plants, several of which are endemic to Malta or are Pelago-Maltese endemics.

An interesting fact is that the plant species Otanthus maritmus, Schoenus nigricans and Allium amethystinum have been recorded only from this site, while a number of orchid species are also present, and these includeAnacamptis urvilleana, Ophrys bombyliflora and Orchis collina.

The reptiles Elaphe situla (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)), Coluber viridiflavus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Tarentola mauritanica, Hemidactylus turcicus (both covered through Appendix III of the Bern Convention) and Podarcis filfolensis maltensis (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention) have been recorded from this site.

Rdumijiet ta’ Malta (Coastal Cliffs of Malta)

This area is in practice one whole site, but for legal purposes it has been divided into eight smaller sites, as is indicated in Table 1 of this document.

Below is a very brief outline about each part of the Coastal Cliffs area proposed as an Area of Special Conservation Interest. Then, some general information about the Coastal Cliffs area follows.

Coastal Cliffs 1/8 - Qammieħ Area

This part comprises garigue and cliff communities, with various coastal endemic communities, including the endemic plants Anthemis urvilleana and Limonium melitensis, as well as breeding birds, such as Calandrella brachydactyla.

Coastal Cliffs 2/8 - Il-Majjiesa - Ras ir-Raheb

This part of the cliffs is made up of a system of valleys, bays and cliffs, including a sand dune system with a number of important species, clay slopes, and species-rich garigue.

Coastal Cliffs 3/8 - Rdum tal-Punent

This region of the cliffs is of importance due to the presence of perennial spring communities with the endemic and critically endangered Maltese Freshwater Crab Potamon fluviatile ssp.  lanfrancoi, species-rich garigue, as well as cliff communities with endemic vegetation.

Coastal Cliffs 4/8 - Rdum ta’ Għar id-Dwieb

This is another section of great importance, depicted through the various communities that are present, and that include Mediterranean willow formations, species-rich garigue housing the only known site on the island of Malta for the endemic snail Lampedusa imitatrix, and astonishing cliff communities with the endemic Maltese Cliff-Orache Cremnophyton lanfrancoi, described for the first time from this area.

Coastal Cliffs 5/8 - Dingli Cliffs Area

The cliffs, garigue and maquis communities within this area are of prime importance. They are extremely species-rich, particularly in endemic and sub-endemic orchids. It is also the only locality in the world for the endemic and critically endangered snail, Lampedusa melitensis.

Coastal Cliffs 6/8 - Rdum tas-Siġġiewi

This area constitutes many communities on particularly scenic cliffs, with a mixture of Maltese endemic plant species, including the rare national plant - the Maltese Rock Centaury Palaeocyanus crassifolius and the Maltese Salt-Tree Darniella melitensis.

Coastal Cliffs 7/8 - Wieb Babu - Għar Lapsi Area

The whole of this area includes various valley systems and supports very species-rich garigue, cliff-top and cliff communities. Here one can find the endemic plants Euphorbia melitensis and Palaeocyanus crassifolius (national plant; first described from this locality).

Coastal Cliffs 8/8 - Rdum tan-Nofsinhar

This area constitutes various valleys and cliffs, including important bird sites and areas typified by endemic species of European importance.

General information on the above localities, that altogether comprise the selected ASCI Rdumijiet ta’ Malta

Since the area extends from the North to the South of Malta, it supports a variety of habitats. A few habitats of importance are Mediterranean Salt Meadows, Phrygana and Caves, all of which are listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996).

A diverse variety of important flora are present, among which are Cremnophyton lanfrancoi, Palaeocyanus crassifolius, Hyoseris frutescens, Linaria pseudolaxiflora (all listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention) and Ophrys lunulata (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

Since, as pointed out above, the site stretches along the length of Malta, most of the reptile species found locally are to be found in the area. These are Chalcides ocellatus, Coluber viridiflavus, Telescopus fallax (all three listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Coluber algirus, Hemidactylus turcicus, Tarentola mauritanica (all three covered by Appendix III of the Bern Convention), Elaphe situla (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)), Podarcis filfolensis maltensis and Chamaleo chamaleon (both are listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention; Podarcis filfolensis maltensis is covered by the listing ofPodarcis filfolensis).

A selection of avifauna utilize this site for resting, feeding, breeding and/or nesting. Among these are the species Puffinus yelkouan, Calonectris diomedea and Calandrella brachydactyla (all listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

Other important fauna in the area are a selection of mammals. A variety of bat species are known: Myotis blythii, Rhinolophus hipposideros, Plecotus austriacus, Tadarida teniotes (all listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and the former two species also in Resolution No. 6 (1998)). Other fauna include Mustela nivalis and Suncus etruscus (listed in Appendix III of the Bern Convention).

Wied il-Miżieb

This proposed ASCI constitutes a combination of a garigue community close to a maquis community based on the national tree, the Għargħar or Sandarac Gum Tree, Tetraclinis articulata (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention). At this locality, this tree is represented by its largest and best population (about 90 individuals) that is found across the Maltese Islands. Tetraclinis articulata is locally endangered and has a restricted distribution in the Maltese Islands. It is considered to be an important community in the Maltese archipelago, especially as very few such trees still survive in the wild and are only found on the island of Malta, it being completely absent (in the natural state) from the other Maltese Islands. Phrygana, a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1998), is also present at Wied il-Miżieb.

Other important plant species in the area include taxa with a restricted Mediterranean distribution, such as Phagnalon graecum subsp. ginzbergeri and Senecio bicolor, and the endemics Anacamptis urvilleana, Chiliadenus bocconei, Euphorbia melitensis, Orobanche muteli forma melitensis and Ophrys melitensis.

Among the fauna recorded from this site are two endemic invertebrates: Maniola jurtina hyperhispulla and Trochoidea spratti (var. calcarata). Other fauna include the bats Myotis blythii (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and also in Resolution No. 6 (1998)) and Pipistrellus pygmaeus (record not certain; covered by the Bern Convention – Appendix III, listed as Pipistrellus pipistrellus) and the reptiles Elaphe situla (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)) and the reptiles Chamaeleo chamaeleon and Podarcis filfolensis maltensis (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention). Other reptiles known from this site and covered by the Bern Convention (Appendix II and III respectively) are Coluber viridiflavus and Hemidactylus turcicus.

Iċ-Ċittadella

Iċ-Ċittadella, also known as Il-Kastell, consists mainly of fortifications, and thus it is largely composed of old buildings surrounded by bastions. However, it is of great importance, mostly due to the presence of the Pelago-Maltese endemic plant Linaria pseudolaxiflora (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention), one of the most rapidly declining plants of international importance that is found within the Maltese Islands.

Also of importance is a small population of Chamomilla aurea (= Matricaria aurea - a plant that is only known to be found within the Citadel walls in the Maltese Islands) on the ramparts, while an aerohaline assemblage based upon the endemic shrub Darniella melitensis is evident within the remnant units/ruins of the Citadel and on the bastion walls. Antirrhinum siculum, a subendemic, is also present.

With respect to important fauna, Onthophilus globulosus (only found at this locality) and Trochoidea spratti (endemic snail) are known from the area.  Furthermore, a number of different bat species have been recorded from this site: Myotis blythii, Rhinolophus hipposideros (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)), Tadarida teniotis, Pipistrellus kuhlii (both covered by Appendix II of the Bern Convention) and Pipistrellus pygmaeus (listed as Pipistrellus pipistrellus in Appendix III of the Bern Convention).

Id-Dwejra - Qawra Area, including Ħaġret il-Ġeneral

Dwejra is a complex site, with cliffs housing the endemic plants Helichrysum melitense (described from here for the first time), Hyoseris frutescens and Cremnophyton lanfrancoi (all listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention), together with a number of breeding sea-birds, as well as an inland sea, fine stands of the rare Chaste Tree Vitex agnus-castus, and a freshwater pool fed by a perennial spring typified by many threatened animals and plants. The cliffs in the Dwejra area also support the garlic Allium arvense (listed in the national Red Data Book as very rare it being found only in the northwest and west of Gozo). The undisturbed rock faces provide an ideal habitat for a number of protected reptile species.

The freshwater pool mentioned above is known to serve as an important refuge for a number of threatened and endemic species, some of which are only known from this pool, such as the endangered endemic Heliopathes avarus dwejrensis.

Apart from the species mentioned above, a number of other endemic and sub-endemic plants are present at this site, and among others, one finds Darniella melitensis, Chiliadenus bocconei, Limonium melitensis, Matthiola incana subsp. melitensis, Linaria pseudolaxiflora (sub-endemic; listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention) and Daucus rupestris (sub-endemic).

The Dwejra / Qawra area provides a diverse array of habitats for a variety of avifauna. Both residents and migrants are known from here, and these include species that are listed in both Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998): Calandrella brachydactyla, Calonectris diomedea, Falco peregrinus, Puffinus yelkouan.

The area is also known for a variety of protected reptiles, which are namely Chalcides ocellatus, Coluber viridiflavus (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) and Tarentola mauritanica (covered by Appendix III of the Bern Convention). The amphibian Discoglossus pictus pictus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) is also known from this locality. The mammals Plecotus austriacus and Crocidura sicula calypso are also recorded from this site. Both are listed in the Bern Convention (Appendix II and III respectively).

Other interesting fauna include two endemic land snails Muticaria macrostoma f. oscitans and Trochoidea spratti f. schembrii trans ad spratti, both species and their forms being common on the mainland in the Dwejra/Qawra Area.

Ħaġret il-Ġeneral, or Fungus Rock, which forms part of this proposed ASCI, is essentially an isolated pillar of rock rising steeply from the sea. This has been declared as a Nature Reserve in 1992, and the vegetation here is a mixture of rupestral forms and those typical of coastal rock communities (Crithmo-Limonietea). The endemic flora species present here include Cremnophyton lanfrancoi, Helichrysum melitense, Hyoseris frutescens (all three listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention), Limonium melitensis and Matthiola incana subsp. melitensis. Another species of interest is Cynomorium coccineum - Maltese Fungus, a parasitic flowering plant that is confined to this islet and one locality on mainland Malta (Dingli Cliffs).  The most important faunal element on this islet is the endemic General's Rock Lizard, Podarcis filfolensis generalensis (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention; Podarcis filfolensis maltensis is known from the rest of the area in question apart from this islet).

Għajn Barrani Area

The Għajn Barrani area includes a stretch of coastal cliffs on the North of Gozo, ranging from Marsalforn to the sandy beach at Ramla (also a selected ASCI). The area is characterised by plateaux with escarpment on the seaward side, boulder screes and clay slopes, as well as a valley system. Spring-time at this site gives rise to many springs that constitute a very important freshwater habitat, which is overall rare in the Maltese Islands.

Among the important species in the area there are native Tamarix africana trees, Vitex agnus-castus trees and Atriplex halimus, as well as the very scarce Juncus acutus. Endemic species in the area include Darniella melitensis and Euphorbia melitensis.

A number of invertebrates, some of which are locally important, such as Trochoidea spratti, Muticaria macrostoma and Siciliaria septemplicata,have been recorded from this locality.

In addition, a variety of reptiles are present at this site, including Chalcides ocellatus, Coluber viridiflavus, Telescopus fallax (all listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Chamaleo chamaleon and Podarcis filfolensis maltensis (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention).

Ir-Ramla Area

Ir-Ramla lies between two headlands at the mouth of a valley system. The area is characterised by hills which slope gently towards a bay. The beach at this site consists mostly of sand of Holocene age, backed by wind-blown dunes and raised beach deposits which extend inland for about 200m.

The sand dune (a habitat listed in Resolution No. 4 (1998)) within this locality is probably the only remaining intact sand dune community on the Maltese Islands, with an almost complete dune system, from embryo dunes to fixed dunes. This supports a large range of animals and plants that are now confined to this area in the Maltese Islands, and some are even endemic to it. Important sand dune plant species include Echinophora spinosa, Euphorbia terracina and Pancration maritimum. These are very important for sand-associating invertebrates. The beach and dune at this site form part of a geomorphological process that gives rise to a complex coastal formation that is both rare and vulnerable locally.

A running temporary stream bisects the beach during the rainy season, due to which a freshwater pool forms. The latter supports a wetland community dominated by Phragmites and Bolboschoenus.

Posidonia oceanica (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention) leaves are washed up onto the beach, forming banquettes, which support interesting faunal communities. Then, the cliffs on either side of Ramla bay are dominated by maritime communities such as the Crithmo-Limonietea community with the endemic Limonium melitensis.

A selection of reptiles are found at this site, all covered by the Bern Convention, including Podarcis filfolensis (also listed in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention), Coluber viridiflavus and Chalcides ocellatus. The endemic mammal Crocidura sicula calypso (Bern Convention Appendix III) has been recorded too. Other important fauna in the area are the invertebrates Pseudoseriscius cameroni and Brachytrupes megacephalus, both Annex II species of the EU Habitats Directive.

Ix-Xlendi - Wied tal-Kantra Area

This site constitutes a large valley system and species-rich garigue, with various important natural habitats and species, including good populations of endemic plants and various temporary pools that house species of international importance, such as the sub-endemic plant Elatine gussonei.

The valley known as Wied tal-Lunzjata, is one of the few remaining valleys of the Maltese Islands with a permanent freshwater supply. Various plant, mollusc, crustacean, insect and other invertebrate species that are associated with this freshwater habitat are found in the valley bed. Such species are either very rare in the Maltese Islands and found only in a few other localities, or may even be restricted to this locality. Important plant species include Elatine gussonei (mentioned above) and Asplenium marinum. Another freshwater species found in Wied ix-Xlendi is the freshwater crab Potamon fulviatile ssp. lanfrancoi, which is endemic to the Maltese Islands.

The vertical sea cliffs of the area support typical rupestral communities. Important plant species include the endemics Hyoseris frutescens,Cremnophyton lanfrancoi, Palaeocyanus crassifolius, all of which are listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention, as well as Matthiola incana ssp. melitensis. Trochoidea gharlapsi, a mollusc endemic to the Maltese Islands, is also found here.

The valley, as well as the cliffs and sea caves found within this locality attract and provide a suitable for a large variety of avifauna and in fact serve as staging posts for a number of migratory birds. Species recorded at this locality and listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) are Calonectris diomedea, Ixobrychus minutus, Nycticorax nycticorax, Alcedo atthis, Calandrella brachydactyla and Puffinus yelkouan.

The reptile species Chalcides ocellatus and Coluber viridiflavus (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Hemidactylus turcicus andTarentola mauritanica (both covered through Appendix III of the Bern Convention) and Podarcis filfolensis maltensis (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention) have also been recorded from the site.

In addition, the bat species Myotis blythii and Rhinolophus hipposideros, both covered by Appendix II of the Bern Convention and Resolution No. 6 (1998) have been recorded from this location, as well as Pipistrellus sp..

Filfla

This islet has been a strict Nature Reserve since 1988, where access is prohibited and all flora and fauna are protected. It is an important bird area housing various sea-bird breeding colonies, including one of the largest Mediterranean breeding colonies of Hydrobates pelagicus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

A number of species are confined to this island, including the Filfola Wall Lizard Podarcis filfolensis filfolensis (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention)), a peculiar form of the endemic snail Lampedusa imitatrix gattoi, as well as the snail Trochoidea spratti form despotti.

Apart from the Wall Lizard, other reptiles recorded from the site are Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus (covered through Appendix III of the Bern Convention).

The screes of the islet of Filfla have proved to be ideal breeding sites for certain bird species. Apart from Hydrobates pelagicus, the seabirds Calonectris diomedea (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)) and Larus cachinnans also breed at this site. Puffinus yelkouan also possibly breeds on this islet (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

Kemmuna, Kemmunett, Il-Ħaġriet ta’ Bejn il-Kmiemen u l-Iskoll ta’ Taħt il-Mazz

Kemmuna (known as Comino in English) is a small island lying mid-way between Malta and Gozo together with small islets known as Kemmunett, il-Ħaġriet ta' Bejn il-Kmiemen and l-Iskoll ta' Taħt il-Mazz. Among the habitats found here one finds sand dunes and phrygana, both of which are habitats listed in Resolution No. 4 (1996) as habitats requiring specific conservation measures.

The entire island of Kemmuna and its satellite islets house the best endemic Maltese Spurge Euphorbia melitensis habitat types of the Maltese Islands, as well as thyme garigue, a small saline marshland with native Tamarix africana and Vitex agnus-castus communities, and cliffs with the endemic plant Darniella melitensis and the sub-endemic plant Daucus rupestris. A number of sandy beaches, one of which is backed by a small dune system with species confined to this locality only in the Maltese Islands, are also found.

The rocky coast of the area supports a number of important species, such as Anthemis urvilleana (endemic), Limonium virgatum, Limonium melitensis (endemic), Ophrys melitensis (endemic) and Crucianella rupestris. The garigue area also supports a number of endemic species, which include Chiliadenus bocconei, Allium lojaconoi and Anacamptis urvilleana. The few rock pools in the garigue support Zannichellia melitensis, a recently described endemic.

 

The area close to the Comino Tower supports a population of the Pelago-Maltese endemic Linaria pseudolaxiflora (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention). On the other hand, the rock-cut valley at Taħt il-Mazz supports populations of the Pelago-Maltese endemic Daucus rupestris, while the underlying cliffs harbour populations of the endemic shrub Darniella melitensis.

Kemmunett (also known as Cominotto) is known to support a number of bird species, namelyFalco peregrinus, Falco vespertinus, Calandrella brachydactyla, Calonectris diomedea, Puffinus yelkouan (all listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)), Circus aeruginosus and Milvus migrans (listed in Appenidx III of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998)).

Important fauna on this island include the endemic land snail Trochoidea spratti, the endemic beetle Stenosis schembrii and the endemic ant Strongylognathus insularis. It is relevant to note that Kemmuna is the type locality for the latter endemic species of the beetle and ant.

The reptiles known from this site are Chalcides ocellatus (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention), Tarentola mauritanica (covered through Appendix III of the Bern Convention), Chamaeleo chamaleon (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention) and Podarcis filfolensis maltensis (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention). It is interesting to note that the population of Podarcis filfolensis on Kemmunett has morphological differences from the lizard found on Kemmuna and is sometimes regarded as an unnamed subspecies.

The sea caves of Kemmuna support small colonies of bats that are listed in the national Red Data Book. The species recorded are Plecotus austriacus, Pipistrellus kuhlii (both listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) andPipistrellus pygmaeus (covered by Appendix III of the Bern Convention – listed as Pipistrellus pipistrellus).

Selmunett / Il-Gżejjer ta’ San Pawl

This proposed ASCI consists of two small islands, also known as St Paul’s Islands, which were declared a Nature Reserve in 1993, such that activities on the islands are only permissible between sunrise and sunset, and then only for swimming, berthing of sea craft and walking along designated footpaths.

Apart from other important species, these islets support sea cliffs with endemic Limonium melitensis andLimonium zeraphae and are home to the sub-endemic plant Linaria pseudolaxiflora (listed in Appendix I of the Bern Convention). An endemic Wall Lizard, Podarcis filfolensis kieselbachi (Podarcis filfolensis is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention and in Resolution No. 6 (1998) in the list of species identified by the Committee as possible candidates for amendment of Appendix I of its Resolution No. 5, or, if appropriate, Appendix I or II of the Convention)is confined to these islands.

Of interest are the bioconstructions typified by Dendropoma petraeum (listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention) together with the rhodophyte Neogoniolithon notarisi. Although strictly a marine community, it is also protected within this Nature Reserve due to its terrestrial exposure. It is important since it houses various species, including a number of rare flora and fauna. Also of relevance are a community of the protected star-coral Astroides calycularis and the sea-fir alga Cystoseira amentacea (both species are listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention).

Foreseen Improvements

The following issues need to be taken into consideration for the complete and appropriate implementation of the Emerald Network in Malta.

A number of gaps in the information provided in the datasheets still prevail. The main issue that needs to be taken into consideration is the fact that the national Red Data Book was published in 1989, and this implies that this publication, among others, needs to be revised. Such revision will aid in the filling in of most of the prevailing gaps.

Most of the necessary data in order to publish an updated version of the national Red Data Book is being collated through commissioned studies. In view of this, a number of tenders have been commissioned in order to collect data and information on specific species groups where it is still lacking. The following is a list of Biodiversity Action Plan tenders that have been issued to date:

(Rate of exchange from Maltese Lira (LM) to Euro (€) cited: 2.4658)

Ø Tender on Threatened Bats and Important Bat Sites – awarded, finalised March 2004 (246.58 Euros)

Ø Tender on Threatened and/or Endemic Invertebrates excluding Insects – recently awarded (89,755 Euros)

Ø Tender on Threatened and/or Endemic Insects – awarded, to be finalised by end 2005 (27,124 Euros)

Ø Tender on Threatened and/or Endemic Vertebrates excluding Fish, Birds, Cetaceans and Bats – recently awarded (29,590 Euros)

Ø Tender on Threatened and/or Endemic Fish – recently awarded (58,933 Euros)

Ø Tender on the baseline survey of the extent and character of Posidonia oceanica meadows in the territorial waters of the Maltese Islands – awarded, finalized December 2003 (100,644 Euros)

Ø Tender on Alien Flora – awarded, to be finalised by end 2005 (48,330 Euros)

Ø Tender on Alien Fauna – recently awarded (38,836 Euros)

The definition of ‘threatened’ includes, among others, all species listed in the Habitats Directive and international treaties to which Malta is a signatory or party, or others that Malta intends to eventually accede in future. Thus, these species also include those listed in the Appendices of the Bern Convention.

The islet of Filfla was not visited during the compilation of the relevant Emerald Network datasheet. The reason for this was that when surveying was carried out, it was the same time when important sea birds of the area were nesting and/or rearing their chicks.  Thus, in order to avoid any adverse effects on the protected avifauna, information regarding this selected ASCI was mainly compiled through data that was gathered during the various authorised scientific expeditions that have been done by local experts throughout the years.

Considering the ASCI referred to as Coastal Cliffs of Malta, this covers an extensive area and detailed surveying has not been completed thus far; in this respect, surveying is still being carried out.

Further updates are also necessary in relation to the location of caves and temporary rock pools, together with information in connection with the species found at such sites. Studies and surveys in order to collate such information have commenced and thus, the necessary datasheets will be amended accordingly in view of this.

The process of data compilation in relation to ASCIs (as well as SACs) is essentially a scientific ongoing process, and thus, the data being provided can only be considered as a picture within a specific timeframe. It is important to highlight the fact that certain information requires updating in the near future. Most of such information will be gathered through biodiversity surveillance and monitoring, further studies and surveys, and innovative information that shall be collected through the Biodiversity Action Plan tenders.

Such a project was initiated by giving attention to terrestrial sites, as can be gathered from the above site descriptions.  However, this does not mean that there are no marine sites that are being given attention.  Due to the additional difficulties in assessing and compiling data for such sites, this is taking more time.  However, work is being carried out in connection with the first Marine Protected Area for the Maltese Islands, and is in an advanced stage and nearing completion. Subsequently, such sites could also be eligible to contribute towards the Pan-European Ecological Network.

Plans are also in hand for enhanced communication, education, public awareness and enforcement, and together these will make such sites better known, more appreciated and protected in a more appropriate manner.

Problems encountered

A number of technical problems cropped up during the filling in of the data into the Database. These were tackled accordingly, and mainly included problems related to saving of new data and printing of the reports.

Another issue that was tackled as best as it could was that related to site maps. The following highlights how this issue was tackled in view of National Map Numbers and the size of the Maltese Islands.

The Maltese Islands have been divided into sections referred to as ‘Ecological Survey Sheets’, each one being numbered (refer to Map 1). The numbers given for such Ecological Survey Sheets have been entered where the National Map Number is being requested. Site MT0000024 (Rdumijiet ta’ Malta – located on the west side of the island of Malta) covers an area which constitutes more than 10 survey sheet numbers, and since the database only accepts up to 10 National Map Numbers, not all of the relevant numbers could be entered. Thus, ranges of Ecological Survey Sheet numbers are indicated in the database (refer to Map 2 - the area covered by this proposed site with respect to Ecological Survey Sheet numbers can be depicted through this map).

Referring to the scale used for mapping, the same scale for each map seems to have to be entered in the database. However, considering the small size of the Maltese Islands, this caused a bit of a problem. Thus, one complete map showing the location of all the selected sites of the Maltese Islands is being presented, with a scale of 1:45000 (the scale entered in the database; this was not always included in the print-out). At even this scale, details of most of the sites cannot be clearly seen. Thus, separate maps for each site, each with a different scale, which is indicated on the map itself, are also being provided.

Map 1

Map 2

As a final note with respect to the maps, the specifications of the full UTM spatial referencing system used are:

Grid: UTM Zone 33 S

Projection: Universal Transverse Mercator

Ellipsoid: International (Hayford)

Unit of measurement: metre

Meridian of Origin: 15° East of Greenwich

Latitude of Origin: Equator

Scale Factor at Origin: 0.9996

False co-ordinates of Origin: 500,000m Easting, Nil m Northing

Datum: European 1950

Financial Statement

Rate of exchange from Maltese Lira (LM) to Euro (€) cited: 2.4658

Training workshop	859.33 EUR
Commissioned Studies	393,458.58 EUR
Work carried out by consultants	7397.40 EUR
Work carried out by MEPA Officials	30,551.24 EUR
Expenses in connection with Information Technology	10,474.72 EUR
Total	442, 741.27 EUR

Relevant Contact Details

Bern Convention National Focal Point

Name:                      Mr Alfred E Baldacchino

Post:                        Assistant Director Nature Protection

Address:                  Nature Protection Unit

                                Environment Protection Directorate

                                Malta Environment and Planning Authority

                                P.O. Box 200         

                                Valletta CMR 02

                                Malta

E-mail:                     [email protected]

Phone no.:               (+356) 2290.6005; (+356) 2290.6006; (+356) 2290.0000

Fax-no:                    (+356) 2290.1585

Emerald Network National Focal Point

Name:                      Mr Darrin T Stevens

Post:                        Senior Environment Protection Officer

Address:                  Nature Protection Unit

                                Environment Protection Directorate

                                Malta Environment and Planning Authority

                                P.O. Box 200         

                                Valletta CMR 02

                                Malta

E-mail:                     [email protected]

Phone no.:               (+356) 2290.6012; (+356) 2290.0000

Fax-no:                    (+356) 2290.1585

Emerald Network Team Member

Name:                      Ms Marie Therese Gambin

Post:                        Environment Protection Officer

Address:                  Nature Protection Unit

                                Environment Protection Directorate

                                Malta Environment and Planning Authority

                                P.O. Box 200         

                                Valletta CMR 02

                                Malta

E-mail:                     [email protected] 

Phone no.:               (+356) 2290.3093; (+356) 2290.0000

Fax-no:                    (+356) 2290.1585

Final Version 28^th January 2005

Compiled by: Marie Therese Gambin & Darrin T Stevens

(P) 2005, Nature Protection Unit, Malta Environment and Planning Authority

For general nature protection enquiries, contact: [email protected]

Web-Site: www.mepa.org.mt