Concern at grasshopper's fate

Nature Trust has expressed concerned at the fate of the salt marsh grasshopper, which is found only at Salina.

The organisation referred to the recent fire which totally destroyed the reed bed in the area, which is one of high ecological importance and deserved the highest protection status.

The salt march grasshopper, one of the rarest insects, is found in the area together with a variety of avifauna and other animals and plants.

This residential species of grasshopper occurring in Malta is known in Maltese as Gurat tas-Salini (heteracris adspersa).

This insect is very rare with only a few recorded locally.

Nature Trust called on the authorities to take immediate short term action in such sites so that important fauna and flora could be protected.

"The longer the authorities take in research and drafting of management plans, the higher the risk to our local natural heritage.

"NTM feels we have already lost enough time while reports are still being drawn up. A greater commitment to nature protection is expected," it said.