The government has been urged to draw up regulations to protect swordfish from over-fishing.

Environment NGO Din l-Art Helwa said that it appeared that this species was in greater danger of being overfished as there was little or no legislation regulating its catch.

"Maltese fishing statistics show that, over the past few years, the overall weight of swordfish catch has not decreased. There are, however, no statistics that refer to the number of fish being caught but only to the total weight landed. This leads to the perception that there is no problem with swordfish stocks while it is becoming evident that a greater number of smaller immature fish are making up this weight," Din l-Art Helwa said.

"In fact it is perceived, also by other international NGOs, that especially this year, a large number of immature swordfish is being caught as can be seen when visiting any fishmonger shop."

It added that updated legislation would also protect the artisan fisherman who depended on this and other fish for their livelihood.