Threatened protected plants (6)

Although the cover of woodlands was never very extensive across the Maltese islands, a greener Malta prevailed several decades ago. Today, true woodlands are very rare, possibly covering about five per cent of the islands, including non-native trees. Natural factors contribute to this, for instance the significant degree of exposed land areas prone to strong winds.

Nevertheless, the diversity of Maltese trees is impressive, numbering about 60 species. Woodlands, together with leaf litter and dead trunks, support a number of important species, among them rare and endemic fungi and invertebrates. Regrettably, 77 per cent of Malta's native trees are rare, threatened or extinct.

There are a number of natural and anthropogenic factors that lead to negative effects on trees in the Maltese islands, a number of which are common to other countries as well, such as natural and man-induced fires, cutting and non-native species.

With a good number of native trees being on the verge of extinction, the setting up of legislation and the designation of protected areas are crucial, and have indeed been considered.

Means to effectively implement legislation and other policies, and to promote the use of Maltese trees in afforestation, reforestation and ecological restoration projects, need to be sought.

Added to this, of great importance is education and public awareness, such that the Maltese society will appreciate the significance and rarity of certain native trees.

For further information go to www.mepa.org.mt/interreg3c_rdp.

Should you require more information kindly contact nature.