New alien species have been discovered in Maltese waters by the university’s Conservation Biology Research Group at the Department of Biology.

The discovery was made as part of the group’s biodiversity research.

Lionfish. Photo: Shutterstock

This ongoing research introduced two new additions to the list of alien tropical reef species in Maltese waters - the lowfin chub and the poisonous lionfish.

Apart from identifying the species morphologically and genetically, the research also investigates the possible impact of the different alien species on local fish communities and habitats.

The group presented several of its published discoveries at an international workshop on invasive species in Ischia in May, so as to discuss the best way forward in the Mediterranean to adapt to the various ongoing marine environmental changes.

Last Friday, the Times of Malta reported that the lionfish had invaded the Mediterranean and could soon be making its way to Malta if it followed the path taken by alien species swimming through the Suez Canal in the past.