Salini residents concerned about the reddish tinge of seawater have been given a brief biology lesson - by Infrastructure Minister Joe Mizzi. 

PN MP Censu Galea asked the minister about reports of odd-coloured water during the course of this evening's parliamentary questions. 

The minister was happy to oblige. He explained how saltwater pools tended to develop a pinkish hue due to "microorganisms known as halophytes," as he went on to say that the microorganisms "have no effect on salt quality."

The microorganisms' cell membranes contain carotenoids - the pigments responsible for tomatoes being red or autumn leaves turning yellow - and these carotenoids led to the water developing a pink-red tinge, the minister said. 

“The dark colour increases the absorption of sunlight, which increases the temperature, which increases evaporation and therefore salt production,” the minister concluded. 

Marine biologist Alan Deidun confirmed that Mr Mizzi was on the money, saying the water's hue was normal and that the water in the Salini area could, under certain conditions, take on various tinges. 

Had he been a student, Mr Mizzi would have narrowly missed out on an 'A' grade: the microorganisms are known as 'halophiles', Dr Deidun noted, with 'halophytes' being generally reserved for larger plants which grew in saltwater.