Report on the main results of the surveillance under article 11 for annex I habitat types (Annex D)

Habitat Types and Regional Levels on this report

1110 - Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time MMED

1120 - Posidonia beds (Posidonion oceanicae) MMED

1150 - Coastal lagoons MED

1170 - Reefs MMED

1210 - Annual vegetation of drift lines MED

1240 - Vegetated sea cliffs of the Mediterranean coasts with endemic Limonium spp. MED

1310 - Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand MED

1410 - Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) MED

1420 - Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi) MED

1510 - Mediterranean salt steppes (Limonietalia) MED

2110 - Embryonic shifting dunes MED

2210 - Crucianellion maritimae fixed beach dunes MED

2220 - Dunes with Euphorbia terracina MED

3140 - Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp. MED

3170 - Mediterranean temporary ponds MED

5230 - Arborescent matorral with Laurus nobilis MED

5330 - Thermo-Mediterranean and pre-desert scrub MED

5410 - West Mediterranean clifftop phryganas (Astragalo-Plantaginetum subulatae) MED

5420 - Sarcopoterium spinosum phryganas MED

5430 - Endemic phryganas of the Euphorbio-Verbascion MED

6220 - Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea MED

8210 - Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation MED

8310 - Caves not open to the public MED

8330 - Submerged or partially submerged sea caves MMED

92A0 - Salix alba and Populus alba galleries MED

92D0 - Southern riparian galleries and thickets (Nerio-Tamaricetea and Securinegion tinctoriae) MED

9320 - Olea and Ceratonia forests MED

9340 - Quercus ilex and Quercus rotundifolia forests MED

9540 - Mediterranean pine forests with endemic Mesogean pines MED

9570 - Tetraclinis articulata forests MED

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1110
0.2 b) Habitat name Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2008
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MMED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MMED - Marine Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources ADI Associates & Scott Wilson. (2008): Detailed Investigation and Feasibility Studies on Land Reclamation at Two indicated Search Areas, Malta. Technical Report 1; Volume 1. Report prepared for the Malta Environment and Planning Authority.

Borg, J.A. & Schembri, P.J. (2002): Alignment of Marine Habitat Data of the Maltese Islands to Conform to the Requirements of the EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC). Report Commissioned by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Malta: Independent Consultants; 136pp + Figs 1-23.

G.A.S. [Geological Assistance & Services] s.r.l. (2002): Baseline Survey of the Extent and Character of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile Meadows in the Territorial Waters of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Study and associated data cards commissioned by the Environment Protection Department and the Planning Authority; iii + 176pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 45
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction x - unknown
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 38
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2008
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction x - unknown
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 0 - Absent data
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
G05.03 - penetration/ disturbance below surface of the seabed M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
G05.03 - penetration/ disturbance below surface of the seabed M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Cymodocea nodosa
Posidonia oceanica
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The habitat as outlined in the Interpretation Manual does not occur per se in Malta. However, noting the description provided for the Mediterranean in the said Manual, areas with the marine angiosperm Cymodocea nodosa are included in this assessment. This meadow-forming seagrass tends to co-occur in certain areas with Posidonia oceanica. In such cases, the dominance of the species changes from time-to-time, possibly due to changes in the surrounding environment.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The area covered by this habitat is known to be dynamic, and this in view of the lifecycle and very specific ecology of the pertaining species. The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 32
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 32
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional)
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
7.3 - Regulation/ Management of fishery in marine and brackish systems Legal M - medium importance Both Enchance
8.3 - Managing marine traffic Legal M - medium importance Both Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1120
0.2 b) Habitat name Posidonia beds (Posidonion oceanicae)

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MMED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MMED - Marine Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J.A.; Attrilla, M.J.; Rowden, A.A.; Schembri, P.J. & Jones, M.B. (2005): Architectural Characteristics of two Bed Types of the Seagrass Posidonia oceanica over Different Spatial Scales. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science. 62: 667–678.

Cormaci, M.; Lanfranco, E.; Borg, J.A.; Buttigieg, S.; Furnari, G.; Micallef, S.A.; Mifsud, C.; Pizzuto, F.; Scammacca, B. & Serio, D. (1997): Contribution to the Knowledge of Benthic Marine Algae on Rocky Substrata of the Maltese Islands (Mediterranean Sea). Botanica Marina 40: 203-215.

G.A.S. [Geological Assistance & Services] s.r.l. (2002): Baseline Survey of the Extent and Character of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile Meadows in the Territorial Waters of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Study and associated data cards commissioned by the Environment Protection Department and the Planning Authority; iii + 176pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Micallef, A.; Foglini, F.; LeBas, T.; Angeletti, L.; Maselli, V.; Pasuto, A. & Taviani, M. (2013): The Submerged Paleolandscape of the Maltese Islands: Morphology, Evolution and Relation to Quaternary Environmental Change. Marine Geology. 335: 129-147.

Mifsud, C.R.; Cinelli, F.; Acunto, S.; Balata, D.; Lanfranco, E.; Micallef, S.A.; Piazzi, l.; Stevens, D.T. & Calvo, S. (2006): The Distribution and State of Health of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile Meadows in Maltese Territorial Waters. Biol. Mar. Medit., 13(4) 255-261.

Mifsud, C.R.; Cinelli, F.; Piazzi L.; Acunto S.; Balata, D.; Lanfranco E. & Micallef S.A. (2004): The Distribution and State of Health of the Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile Meadows in Maltese Territorial Waters. Annales Ser. His. Nat, 14(2) Supplement: 28.

Pergent-Martini, C.; Leoni V.; Pasqualini V.; Ardizzone, G.D.; Balestri, E.; Bedini, R.; Belluscio, A.; Belsher, T.; Borg J.A.; Boudouresque, C.F.; Boumaza, S.; Bouquegneau, J.M.; Buia, M.C.; Calvo, S.; Cebrian, J.; Charbonnel, E.; Cinelli, F.; Cossu, A.; Di Maida, G.; Dural, B.; Francour, P.; Gobert, S.; Lepoint, G.; Meinesz, A.; Molenaar, H.; Mansour, H.M.; Panayotidis, P.; Peirano, A.; Pergent, G.; Piazzi, L.; Pirrotta, M.; Relini, G.; Romero, J.; Sanchez-Lizaso, J.L.; Semroud, R.; Schembri, P.J.; Shili, A.; Tomasello, A. and Velimirov, B. (2005): Descriptors of Posidonia oceanica Meadows: Use and Application’. Ecological Indicators, 5: 213–230.

Schembri, P.J. and Sultana, J. (eds.). (1989): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Department of Information, Malta, viii + 142pp. + 8 plates.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 185
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 179
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
G05.03 - penetration/ disturbance below surface of the seabed M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
G05.03 - penetration/ disturbance below surface of the seabed M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Cymodocea nodosa
Paracentrotus lividus
Pinna nobilis
Posidonia oceanica
2.7.2 Typical species - method used Of the five species of seagrasses reported from the Maltese Islands (two presumably extinct, one quite rare), the most important are Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa. The former, which is the most important component of this priority habitat type, is relatively abundant in Malta. Posidonia meadows in Malta are found in different ecomorphosis, on bedrock and on sand. Some areas produce thick matte walls, allowing for colonisation by an array of photophillic algae. They support a wide variety of organisms of conservation interest, one particularly important species being the Annex II species Pinna nobilis.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information Posidonia oceanica is quite abundant in Malta. In view of this, its range is rather extensive, it being mostly present along the northeastern to southeastern coast, due to its gentler sloping nature. Although there are parts with a somewhat patchy distribution, dense meadows are found in other areas, particularly to the east of mainland Malta, with an area towards the northwestbeing particularly important. Considering the island of Gozo, Posidonia oceanica is widely present along the northeastern coast. The channels between Gozo and Comino, and Comino and Malta, are very densely covered, and the status of the meadows are known to be healthy. Locally, Posidonia oceanica meadows occur as two main subtypes: the continuous meadows and the reticulate (or non-continuous) meadows (seagrass beds intermixed with channels and areas of bare sand or bedrock). Local Posidonia reefs are characterised by a thick layer of matte (at least 1 metre) and healthy Posidonia shoots forming extensive bands over considerable areas of the matte. Research carried out by students and postgraduates of the University of Malta showed that Maltese Posidonia oceanica meadows have some of the highest values of shoot density and leaf standing crop in the Mediterranean, extending to greater than 40m depth in certain areas around the islands. Posidonia meadows surrounding the islands are generally in a good state of health. For instance, shoot density values are classed in the ‘normal density class’ according to Giraud classification, where some meadows show quite high values; while 25% of the meadows show values of primary production that exceed those present elsewhere in the Mediterranean Sea, with signs of a high degree of vitality. The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells). NOTE: Selected information, used for the preparation of the relevant maps and extraction of related values, was kindly provided by Dr Aaron Micallef.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 140
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 140
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.3 - Regulation/ Management of fishery in marine and brackish systems Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal H - high importance Both Maintain
8.3 - Managing marine traffic Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1150
0.2 b) Habitat name Coastal lagoons

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70. Malta: Environment Division.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 7
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 7
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
J02.02 - Removal of sediments (mud...) L - low importance
K01.02 - Silting up M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) L - low importance
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
J02.02 - Removal of sediments (mud...) L - low importance
K01.02 - Silting up M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) L - low importance
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) L - low importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Aphanius fasciatus
Phragmites australis
Ruppia cirrhosa (= R. spiralis)
Ruppia drepanensis
Ruppia maritima
2.7.2 Typical species - method used According to the Interpretation Manual for EU Habitats, 1150 is with/without vegetation from Ruppietea maritimae, Potametea, Zosteretea or Charetea. Eel-grasses, Zostera marina and Z. noltii, are both reported as possibly extinct from the Maltese Islands, the last reliable records being from various (estuarine) bays in the late 19th century. Considering Ruppia spp., this is mostly confined to marshes, as is Is-Salini, and in fact most of the population of this taxon across the Maltese Islands is found within this Natura 2000 site. In view of this, the structure and functions of this habitat is based on these species. It is relevant to note that Potamogeton species are very rare, and mostly confined to selected wet areas, not along the coast. Additionally, Maltese habitat types with Ruppietea and/or Charatea vegetation in coastal areas do not readily fit any of the three related habitat types, namely 1130 (Estuaries), 1150 (Coastal lagoons) and 1160 (Large shallow inlets and bays). Most of the marsh areas are normally separated from the sea due to access roads (such as at L-Għadira, Is-Simar, Il-Magħluq ta’ Marsaskala) and often end up as small pools of shallow coastal brackish water, with varying salinity dependant on rainfall and storms (and the related water flow), evaporation and sea-spray. In view of this, and noting the descriptions for the mentioned habitats in the Interpretation Manual, this habitat type, 1150, best fits the habitats found in Malta.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded. Note re range & distribution maps: Although the values for the range and area have remained the same since the last reporting period, there has been a change in the distribution/range maps, since following further assessment it was concluded that the site referred to as the &inland sea& at the west of Gozo (at Id-Dwejra) does not qualify under this habitat type, since the vegetation is entirely marine. An additional grid cell was marked for Is-Simar based on Natura 2000 habitat mapping. It should also be noted that Ruppia drepanensis was found within very small salt pans at Taħt ix-Xifer (north Gozo) and Il-Ballut (l/o Marsaxlokk, southeast Malta), the latter being a Natura 2000 marshland; however, these are highly restricted in area cover and probably do not represent this habitat type, in view of which they have not been included in the maps pending further assessments.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 7
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 7
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
2.1 - Maintaining grasslands and other open habitats Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance Long-term
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent M - medium importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.4 - Specific single species or species group management measures Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance Long-term
4.1 - Restoring/improving water quality Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance
4.4 - Restoring coastal areas Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off M - medium importance Inside Enchance
4.2 - Restoring/improving the hydrological regime Administrative Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Outside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1170
0.2 b) Habitat name Reefs

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MMED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MMED - Marine Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources ADI Associates & Scott Wilson. (2008): Detailed Investigation and Feasibility Studies on Land Reclamation at Two indicated Search Areas, Malta. Technical Report 1; Volume 1. Report prepared for Malta Environment and Planning
Authority.

Deidun, A.; Tsounis, G.; Balzan, F. & Micallef, A. (2010): Records of Black Coral (Antipatharia) and Red Coral (Corallium rubrum) fishing activities in the Maltese Islands. Marine Biodiversity Records, 3, 1 -6.

Freiwald, A.; Beuck, L.A.; Ruggeberg, A.; Taviani, M.; Hebbeln, D. & R/V Meteor cruise M70-1 participants. (2009): The White Coral Community in the Central Mediterranean Sea revealed by ROV surveys. Oceanography; 22(1); 58-74.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Thibaut, T. (2011): Ecological Status of the Rocky Coast of Malta, May 2008.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 170
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction x - unknown
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 170
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction x - unknown
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
G05.03 - penetration/ disturbance below surface of the seabed M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
G05.03 - penetration/ disturbance below surface of the seabed M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Antipathes spp.
Astroides calycularis
Cladocora caespitosa
Corallium rubrum
Cystoseira spp.
Dendrophyllia cornigera
Dendropoma petraeum
Desmophyllum cristagalli
Leiopathes glaberrima
Lithophyllum lichenoides
Lophelia pertusa
Madrepora oculata
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The current distribution is based on various assessments related to the distribution of Cystoseira spp., particularly C. crinita and C. amentacea v. stricta, and Lithophyllum lichenoides auct. F. Melit. Known records for Astroides calycularis and Dendropoma petraeum were also considered. These are mostly known from land-coastal locations; however, C. crinita, C. amentacea v. stricta and Dendropoma petraeum are common and found along almost all of the Maltese coastline.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information On the basis of the current distribution, the range and area are favourable; however, since the data considered does not represent the entire variability of this habitat in Malta, further assessment is required. In order to assess this, map reefs, and propose Sites of Community Importance, Malta has embarked on a LIFE+ project (LIFE BaĦAR for N2K), in conjunction with Oceana; Malta’s Fisheries Department; the University of Malta; and the Ministry for Sustainable Development, the Environment and Climate Change. Such project is planned to commence in October 2013. The surface area indicated (2.3.1, 2.4.1 & 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment XX - Unknown
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 95
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 95
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional)
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
7.3 - Regulation/ Management of fishery in marine and brackish systems Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain
8.3 - Managing marine traffic Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal H - high importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1210
0.2 b) Habitat name Annual vegetation of drift lines

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Cassar, L.F. & Stevens, D.T. (2003): Coastal Sand Dunes Under Siege. A Guide for Environmental Managers. Malta: International Environment Institute, University of Malta.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Camilleri, A.; Mallia, A.; Rizzo, Y.; Schembri, T.; Stevens, D.T. & Tanti, C.M. (1999): State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998: Living Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V.; Gauci, V.; Mallia, A.; Mallia, E.; Schembri, P.J. & Vella, A.J., State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998, pp. 109-283. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Malta Council for Science and Technology.

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Mallia, A.; Schembri, T.; Sant, M.J.; Stevens, D.T. & Vella, S.J. (2002): State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002: Natural Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V. (ed.), State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002, pp. 162-346. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Ministry of Home Affairs and the Environment.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T. (2001): The Status of Maltese Sand Dunes and their Flora and Vegetation, with a case study on Ramla l-Ħamra (Gozo, Central Mediterranean). In: Dandria, D. (ed.) Biology Symposium Abstracts 2001, pp. 36-38. Malta: University of Malta.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 18
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 13
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
G02.08 - camping and caravans M - medium importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 3 - based exclusively or to a larger extent on real data from sites/occurrences or other data sources
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
K01.01 - Erosion M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Cakile maritima
Calystegia soldanella
Euphorbia paralias
Euphorbia peplis
Matthiola tricuspidata
Polygonum maritimum
Raphanus landra
Raphanus maritimus
Salsola kali
Sporobolus pungens
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat is not frequent in the Maltese Islands, and most sand dune systems lack well-developed Cakiletea communities due to their small size. It is usually found along drift lines and embryo dunes or foredunes close to the sea, often with a considerable input of organic matter, particularly from seagrasses, mostly Posidonia residues, but also Cymodocea and Halophila. These Cakiletea communities generally occupy fringe communities, and are often intermixed with shifting dune communities. Various drift line community sub-types are known from the Maltese Islands, mostly dependent on which of the ‘differential’ species is dominant. The presence of the afore-mentioned species and their relative coverage; the extent of sand mobility and saltation processes; the sand/organic matter input; the presence/absence of species more vulnerable to human impact; and direct evidence of intense human interference; were considered in terms of structure and function. In many beaches, an impoverished version of this community is present, and in some cases, as in San Niklaw (north Comino), Exiles (l/o Tas-Sliema, Malta), and some beaches in the north of Gozo and the south of Malta, only individual plants of Cakile maritima, Salsola spp., Euphorbia peplis and/or Polygonum maritimum occur, often sporadically. These were not considered in the habitat area analysis, but were assessed in terms of structure and function to determine the status of this habitat type.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information Overall, there has been no major change in the status of this habitat since the last reporting period. Due to the dearth of sandy beaches in the Maltese Islands, it is difficult to have an increase in this habitat in terms of area, and most measures (3.2) aim at maintaining the current status. A number of sand dunes within Natura 2000 sites are currently managed through management agreements with NGOs (such as Għajn Tuffieħa, Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa, Ir-Ramla in Gozo). The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 9
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 9
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1240
0.2 b) Habitat name Vegetated sea cliffs of the Mediterranean coasts with endemic Limonium spp.

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 102
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 96
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
L10 - other natural catastrophes L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Allium lojaconoi
Anthemis urvilleana
Arthrocnemum glaucum
Capparis spinosa s.l.
Crithmum maritimum
Crucianella rupestris
Darniella melitensis
Daucus carota s.l.
Daucus gingidium s.l.
Desmazeria pignattii
Hyoseris frutescens
Inula crithmoides
Jacobaea maritima subsp. sicula
Limonium melitensis
Linaria pseudolaxiflora
Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum
Parapholis incurva
Plantago commutata
Plantago crypsoides
Sedum litoreum
Senecio leucanthemifolius
Senecio pygmaeus
Silene sedoides
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This community is in very exposed coastal areas with low soil cover, and is typical of cliffs plateau, low-lying coralline limestone and weathered karstland along the coast, and is characterised by annuals and hardy, often succulent, shrubs. It is distinguished from the other, rarer, rocky shore and cliff communities (locally classed under habitat types 1420 and 8210) in the lower scrub cover, higher incidence of annual species, and the differential species (refer to habitat types 1420 and 8210 for further detail). The range and area covered by this species have remained relatively stable over this reporting period, with most of the typical species being frequent.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 87
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 87
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1310
0.2 b) Habitat name Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, ixxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 6
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 6
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
J02.02 - Removal of sediments (mud...) L - low importance
J02.10 - management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage purposes L - low importance
K01.02 - Silting up M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) L - low importance
E03.01 - disposal of household / recreational facility waste H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
E01 - Urbanised areas, human habitation L - low importance
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse L - low importance
J02.02 - Removal of sediments (mud...) L - low importance
J02.10 - management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage purposes M - medium importance
K01.02 - Silting up M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Juncus spp.
Limonium virgatum
Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum
Phragmites australis
Salicornia ramosissima
Salsola kali
Salsola soda
Suaeda maritima
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This community is found in saline marshlands and similar habitats. Since such marshlands are very small in extent in the Maltese Islands, a mosaic community is often found, with this community co-occurring within the same few square metres with habitat types 1410 (Mediterranean salt meadows) and 1420 (Mediterranean halophilous scrubs), from which it is differentiated in terms of the dominance of annuals, and less rush and scrub cover respectively. Many areas are also severely affected by anthropogenic disturbance, invasion by Arundo donax, and to a much lesser extent, by Phragmites australis, and inappropriate afforestation, especially Pinus spp., Tamarix spp. and Acacia spp. The constituent species are also found in other areas, including L-Għadira Natura 2000 site; these are classed under related habitat types due to their occurrence with other species.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 3
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 3
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional)
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
2.1 - Maintaining grasslands and other open habitats Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance Long-term
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent M - medium importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.4 - Specific single species or species group management measures Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance Long-term
4.1 - Restoring/improving water quality Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance
4.4 - Restoring coastal areas Administrative Contractual One Off H - high importance Inside Enchance
4.2 - Restoring/improving the hydrological regime Administrative Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Outside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1410
0.2 b) Habitat name Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi)

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, ixxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 10
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 9
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
J02.02 - Removal of sediments (mud...) L - low importance
J02.10 - management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage purposes M - medium importance
K01.02 - Silting up M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) L - low importance
E03.01 - disposal of household / recreational facility waste H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
E01 - Urbanised areas, human habitation L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse L - low importance
J02.02 - Removal of sediments (mud...) L - low importance
J02.10 - management of aquatic and bank vegetation for drainage purposes M - medium importance
K01.02 - Silting up M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Arthrocnemum glaucum
Atriplex prostrata
Carex extensa
Frankenia spp.
Hordeum marinum
Inula crithmoides
Juncus spp.
Lagurus ovatus
Limonium virgatum
Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum
Puccinellia fasciculata
Spergularia spp.
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat type is very rare in the Maltese Islands, as are its representative species, some of which are critically endangered. Many areas are affected by their very small size and the limited space for habitat type regeneration and extension; anthropogenic disturbance (including illegal dumping); invasion by Arundo donax, Aster squamatus and other alien species; and inappropriate afforestation, especially when considering Pinus spp., Tamarix spp. and Acacia spp. These aspects were assessed in relation to existing management practices (some of the Natura 2000 sites are managed), which aim to reduce such impacts.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 8
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 8
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
2.1 - Maintaining grasslands and other open habitats Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance Long-term
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent M - medium importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.4 - Specific single species or species group management measures Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance
4.2 - Restoring/improving the hydrological regime Administrative Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
4.4 - Restoring coastal areas Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off H - high importance Inside Enchance
4.1 - Restoring/improving water quality Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1420
0.2 b) Habitat name Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi)

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, ixxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 44
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 35
2.4.2 Year or period 2008-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying L - low importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
J03.01 - reduction or loss of specific habitat features L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying L - low importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
L10 - other natural catastrophes M - medium importance
J01 - fire and fire suppression M - medium importance
J03.01 - reduction or loss of specific habitat features L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Anthemis urvilleana
Arthrocnemum glaucum
Atriplex halimus
Capparis spinosa s.l.
Crithmum maritimum
Crucianella rupestris
Daucus gingidium s.l.
Halimione portulacoides
Hyoseris frutescens
Jacobaea maritima subsp. sicula
Limbarda crithmoides (= Inula crithmoides)
Limonium melitensis
Limonium virgatum s.l.
Phagnalon spp.
Suaeda vera
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat is characterised by halophilous scrub vegetation typified by Arthrocnemum glaucum and Limbarda crithmoides, and often occurs as a fringe vegetation along low-lying rocks, frequently in co-association with Crithmo-Limonietea species, including Crucianella rupestris, Limonium melitensis and Crithmum maritimum.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information This habitat, confined to exposed coastal areas, is not rare in the Maltese Islands, and is found on low-lying rocks and in the vicinity of saline marshlands or ‘estuaries’. It is characterised by hardy, often succulent shrubs. The surface area and range of this habitat type are more-or-less unaltered since the last report. Moreover, this habitat is not threatened and is increasing in some areas, as in north Gozo and Il-Ballut (l/o Marsaxlokk), where it appears to be increasing to the detriment of other related habitats (such as habitat 1310 at Il-Ballut itself). Nevertheless, the communities found along some of its Maltese areal, as in the northern coast of Gozo, are affected by anthropogenic disturbance. This habitat often co-occurs with habitat type 1240, and some sites are classed under this related habitat. The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 13
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 13
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional)
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Outside Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 1510
0.2 b) Habitat name Mediterranean salt steppes (Limonietalia)

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 58
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 53
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04.03 - abandonment of pastoral systems, lack of grazing M - medium importance
G01.03.02 - off-road motorized driving H - high importance
J01.01 - burning down H - high importance
K01.01 - Erosion H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse L - low importance
G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities L - low importance
I02 - problematic native species M - medium importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04.03 - abandonment of pastoral systems, lack of grazing M - medium importance
G01.03.02 - off-road motorized driving H - high importance
J01.01 - burning down H - high importance
K01.01 - Erosion H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse L - low importance
G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities L - low importance
I02 - problematic native species M - medium importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Atriplex halimus
Brachypodium retusum
Bromus spp.
Cynara cardunculus
Daucus spp.
Hedysarum coronarium
Hordeum spp.
Limonium melitensis
Lotus spp.
Lygeum spartum
Medicago spp.
Onopordum argolicum
Stipa capensis
Tamarix africana
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat type is characterised in the Maltese Islands by Lygeum spartum, but various leguminous plants (Fabaceae), composites (Asteraceae) and grasses (Poaceae) also occur, as well as a variety of threatened species with a restricted distribution in the Maltese Islands (these are listed in the relevant Natura 2000 standard data sheets).
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information This habitat type is frequent in the Maltese Islands, occupying exposed localities, particularly along clay slopes, a significant amount of which are covered by the Natura 2000 Network. The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 42
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 42
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 2110
0.2 b) Habitat name Embryonic shifting dunes

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Cassar, L.F. & Stevens, D.T. (2003): Coastal Sand Dunes Under Siege. A Guide for Environmental Managers. Malta: International Environment Institute, University of Malta.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Camilleri, A.; Mallia, A.; Rizzo, Y.; Schembri, T.; Stevens, D.T. & Tanti, C.M. (1999): State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998: Living Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V.; Gauci, V.; Mallia, A.; Mallia, E.; Schembri, P.J. & Vella, A.J., State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998, pp. 109-283. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Malta Council for Science and Technology.

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Mallia, A.; Schembri, T.; Sant, M.J.; Stevens, D.T. & Vella, S.J. (2002): State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002: Natural Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V. (ed.), State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002, pp. 162-346. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Ministry of Home Affairs and the Environment.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T. (2001): The Status of Maltese Sand Dunes and their Flora and Vegetation, with a case study on Ramla l-Ħamra (Gozo, Central Mediterranean). In: Dandria, D. (ed.) Biology Symposium Abstracts 2001, pp. 36-38. Malta: University of Malta.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 7
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 6
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general L - low importance
G02.08 - camping and caravans M - medium importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 3 - based exclusively or to a larger extent on real data from sites/occurrences or other data sources
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
K01.01 - Erosion M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Calystegia soldanella
Cynodon dactylon
Cyperus capitatus
Elytrigia juncea
Eryngium maritimum
Matthiola tricuspidata
Medicago marina
Pancratium maritimum
Sporobolus pungens
2.7.2 Typical species - method used Surveying of sites and identification of the typical species found therein was considered. This community is usually found along foredunes and the initial zones of the more ‘inland’ yellow dunes, and persists in almost all extant dunes, especially Ramla and Ramla tat-Torri, but is also found in varying degrees in other areas. The presence of the aforementioned species and their relative coverage; the extent of sand mobility and saltation processes; the presence/absence of species more vulnerable to human impact and invasive alien species; as well as direct evidence of intense human interference; were considered in terms of structure and function.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information Overall, there has been no major change in the status of this habitat since the last reporting period. Due to the dearth of sandy beaches in the Maltese Islands, it is difficult to have an increase in this habitat in terms of area, and most measures (3.2) aim at maintaining the current status. A number of sand dunes within Natura 2000 sites are currently managed through management agreements with NGOs (such as Għajn Tuffieħa, Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa, Ir-Ramla in Gozo). The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 4
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 4
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
4.4 - Restoring coastal areas Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 2210
0.2 b) Habitat name Crucianellion maritimae fixed beach dunes

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Cassar, L.F. & Stevens, D.T. (2003): Coastal Sand Dunes Under Siege. A Guide for Environmental Managers. Malta: International Environment Institute, University of Malta.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Camilleri, A.; Mallia, A.; Rizzo, Y.; Schembri, T.; Stevens, D.T. & Tanti, C.M. (1999): State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998: Living Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V.; Gauci, V.; Mallia, A.; Mallia, E.; Schembri, P.J. & Vella, A.J., State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998, pp. 109-283. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Malta Council for Science and Technology.

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Mallia, A.; Schembri, T.; Sant, M.J.; Stevens, D.T. & Vella, S.J. (2002): State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002: Natural Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V. (ed.), State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002, pp. 162-346. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Ministry of Home Affairs and the Environment.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T. (2001): The Status of Maltese Sand Dunes and their Flora and Vegetation, with a Case Study on Ramla l-Ħamra (Gozo, Central Mediterranean). In: Dandria, D. (ed.) Biology Symposium Abstracts 2001, pp. 36-38. Malta: University of Malta.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 3
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 3
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) M - medium importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general L - low importance
G02.08 - camping and caravans H - high importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 3 - based exclusively or to a larger extent on real data from sites/occurrences or other data sources
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
K01.01 - Erosion M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Bromus spp.
Cynodon dactylon
Erodium laciniatum
Euphorbia terracina
Lotus cytisoides
Ononis natrix subsp. ramossisima
Orobanche densiflora forma melitensis
Pancratium maritimum
Scabiosa maritima
Vulpia fasciculata
2.7.2 Typical species - method used Surveying of sites and identification of the typical species found therein was considered. Although typical species of Central Mediterranean fixed dune species (like Crucianella maritima and Centaurea sphaerocephala s.str.) are absent from the Maltese Islands, fixed dunes are represented by the Centaureo-Ononidetum ramosissimae Br.-Bl. & M. Frei in M. Frei 1937 community, of which two sub-types are known (Stevens, 2001), with (a) subass. ononidetosum (M. Frei 1937) Bartolo, Brullo & Marcenó 1982, characterised by the dominance of Ononis natrix subsp. ramosissima, known from the semi-consolidated dunes of Ramla (Gozo); and (b) a variation of the subass. lotetosum Bartolo, Brullo & Marcenó 1982, known from Ramla tat-Torri, and which is differentiated by the high cover of Lotus cytisoides. The community of Ononis natrix subsp. ramosissima and Pancratium maritimum observed at Il-Qala ta’ Santa Marija (Comino) is heavily degraded due to human activities and excessive tamarisk shade, and is possibly on the way to extinction. However, this community might represent a degraded phase of another association (as the Eryngio maritimi-Elytrigetum juncei); in fact, although assigned to this community, it is difficult to assign a particular association due to its degradation and the probable extinction of associated species (like Eryngium maritimum, which is extinct from the said locality). The extent of the aforementioned species; their relative coverage; the extent of Bromus spp. and Cynodon dactylon; the coverage provided by trees, particularly Tamarix africana; the presence/absence of invasive alien species as Aptenia spp., Arundo donax, Carpobrotus edulis, Oxalis pes-caprae, Vitis vinifera – all of which indicate a differing degree of anthropic pressure, as well as direct evidence of intense human interference; were considered in terms of structure and function.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information In terms of future prospects, the community at Comino was not included in this assessment, since it is probably a degraded Elytrigetum community. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 3
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 3
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
4.4 - Restoring coastal areas Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 2220
0.2 b) Habitat name Dunes with Euphorbia terracina

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Cassar, L.F. & Stevens, D.T. (2003): Coastal Sand Dunes Under Siege. A Guide for Environmental Managers. Malta: International Environment Institute, University of Malta.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Camilleri, A.; Mallia, A.; Rizzo, Y.; Schembri, T.; Stevens, D.T. & Tanti, C.M. (1999): State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998: Living Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V.; Gauci, V.; Mallia, A.; Mallia, E.; Schembri, P.J. & Vella, A.J., State of the Environment Report for Malta 1998, pp. 109-283. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Malta Council for Science and Technology.

Schembri, P.J.; Baldacchino, A.E.; Mallia, A.; Schembri, T.; Sant, M.J.; Stevens, D.T. & Vella, S.J. (2002): State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002: Natural Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture. In: Axiak, V. (ed.), State of the Environment Report for Malta 2002, pp. 162-346. Project commissioned by the Environment Protection Department. Malta: Ministry of Home Affairs and the Environment.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T. (2001): The Status of Maltese Sand Dunes and their Flora and Vegetation, with a case study on Ramla l-Hamra (Gozo, Central Mediterranean). In: Dandria, D. (ed.) Biology Symposium Abstracts 2001, pp. 36-38. Malta: University of Malta.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 5
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 5
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data No
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B01.02 - artificial planting on open ground (non-native trees) M - medium importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general L - low importance
G02.08 - camping and caravans H - high importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
E03.01 - disposal of household / recreational facility waste M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 3 - based exclusively or to a larger extent on real data from sites/occurrences or other data sources
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse H - high importance
K01.01 - Erosion M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Bromus spp.
Cyperus capitatus
Echinophora spinosa
Elytrigia juncea
Erodium laciniatum
Euphorbia terracina
Lotus cytisoides
Medicago spp.
Pancratium maritimum
Scolymus hispanicus
Silene colorata
Vulpia fasciculata
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The presence of the typical species and their relative coverage (e.g. high in Euphorbia terracina and low in Elytrigia juncea); the coverage provided by grasses and trees; the presence/absence of rare species more vulnerable to human impact (e.g. Echinophora spinosa) and invasive alien species (e.g. Arundo donax, Oxalis pes-caprae and Vitis vinifera); as well as direct evidence of intense human interference; were considered in terms of structure and function.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information This community forms part of the semi-consolidated sand habitats of L-Għadira, Ir-Ramla tat-Torri, Ir-Ramla tal-Armier and Ir-Ramla (Gozo), with the best extant population at the latter site. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U2 - Bad
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U2 - Bad
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 3
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 3
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
4.4 - Restoring coastal areas Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 3140
0.2 b) Habitat name Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp.

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2007
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Gulia, G. (1909): Le Caracee Maltesi. Bullettino della Società Botanica Italiana (Adunanza della Sede di Firenze del 13 Marzo 1909), pp. 68.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70. Malta: Environment Division.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part 2: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85. Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 5
2.3.2 Method used Range 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction x - unknown
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 5
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2007
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction x - unknown
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01.02 - roads, motorways M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) M - medium importance
G05 - Other human intrusions and disturbances M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits M - medium importance
K01 - abiotic (slow) natural processes M - medium importance
K02 - Biocenotic evolution, succession M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01.02 - roads, motorways M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) M - medium importance
G05 - Other human intrusions and disturbances L - low importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
K01 - abiotic (slow) natural processes M - medium importance
K02 - Biocenotic evolution, succession M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Chara fragilis
Chara vulgaris
Nitella flexilis
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The results in this data sheet are based on the assessment of selected pools and ponds. Few pools/ponds are classed under this habitat type, since most pools are not dominated by charophytes, but by hydrophytic flowering plants; such pools are classified under habitat type 3170. Nevertheless, the pools assessed indicate that a number of pools in the same area are affected by ‘nutrient-rich’ waters, where micro-algae are favoured, negatively affecting the oligotrophic pools with Chara spp. Nitella flexilis, although reported from Malta, was not observed.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
2.7.5 Other relevant information Freshwater rock depressions/pools are rare in the Maltese Islands, being limited to coralline limestone plateau and are very sensitive to disturbance. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded. All recorded rock pools classified as 3140 fall within Natura 2000 sites.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend x - unknown
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend x - unknown
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend - - declining
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status x - unknown

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 5
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 5
3.1.2 Method used 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional)
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 3170
0.2 b) Habitat name Mediterranean temporary ponds

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70. Malta: Environment Division.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part 2: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85. Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Mifsud, S. (2006): A Comparative Study between Elatine gussonei (from Malta) and Elatine macropoda (from Majorca). Malta. Available at: http://www.aquatic-gardeners.org/elatine.htm (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 107
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 85
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01.02 - roads, motorways M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) M - medium importance
G05 - Other human intrusions and disturbances M - medium importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits M - medium importance
K01 - abiotic (slow) natural processes M - medium importance
K02 - Biocenotic evolution, succession M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01.02 - roads, motorways M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) M - medium importance
G05 - Other human intrusions and disturbances L - low importance
J02.11.01 - Dumping, depositing of dredged deposits L - low importance
K01 - abiotic (slow) natural processes M - medium importance
K02 - Biocenotic evolution, succession M - medium importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Branchipus sp./spp. Branchipus sp./spp.
Callitriche truncata
Chara spp.
Crassula vailantii
Crypsis aculeata
Crypsis schoenoides
Cyperus fuscus
Damasonium bourgaei
Elatine gussonei
Lythrum hyssopifolia
Mentha pulegium
Ranunculus saniculaefolius
Sedum caeruleum
Triops cancriformis
Zannichellia melitensis
2.7.2 Typical species - method used Various types of temporary ponds occur across the Maltese Islands. Some of these are known to be quite transient, particularly those within karstic depressions in coralline limestone; others are more long-term. In view of the nature of this habitat type, it is difficult to assess its status. Noting this, sample rock pools have been assessed, and this as part of an ongoing surveillance and monitoring process. This datasheet is hence based on such information, including selected site visits, as well as on literature records, with an assessment mostly based on expert opinion. Based on observation, it seems that some species like Damasonium bourgaei (flora) and Triops cancriformis (fauna) became rarer in the last 30 years, whilst micro-algal cover has increased in certain pools, replacing certain typical hydrophyte vegetation of Maltese ponds.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information Freshwater rock depressions/pools are overall rare in the Maltese Islands, being limited to small karstic depressions in coralline limestone plateau and are very sensitive to disturbance. The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend - - declining
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 62
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 62
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 5230
0.2 b) Habitat name Arborescent matorral with Laurus nobilis

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70; Malta: Department of Information.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 9
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 9
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
L09 - fire (natural) L - low importance
B02.01 - forest replanting M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B02.01 - forest replanting L - low importance
D05 - Improved access to site M - medium importance
G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) L - low importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Ceratonia siliqua
Laurus nobilis
Pistacia lentiscus
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The assessment is based on the type of community present and its extent, evident human impact, cover of Arundo donax (where found), presence of alien species (e.g. Ailanthus altissima) and future prospects.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 8
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 8
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 5330
0.2 b) Habitat name Thermo-Mediterranean and pre-desert scrub

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 93
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 93
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Anthyllis hermanniae subsp. melitensis
Erica multiflora
Euphorbia dendroides
Euphorbia melitensis
Hypericum aegypticum
Periploca angustifolia
Prasium majus
Teucrium flavum
Teucrium fruticans
Thymus capitatus
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The most representative species of this habitat type is Euphorbia dendroides, which characterises many sites. Periploca angustifolia is also present, but is rarely a dominant species. Other species reported in the Interpretation Manual are rarely found in this habitat type in Malta. For instance, Crataegus azarolus and Chamaerops humilis are very rare and RDB-listed. C. azarolus is pending scientific evaluation in Malta in view of the occurrence of the related C. monogyna and hybrids between these two species, whilst C. humilis is critically endangered. Euphorbia melitensis dominates various ‘spiny spurge’ phrygana communities, but although classed under this habitat type in the Interpretation Manual, it is probably a phrygana community, sharing species assemblages with the similar habitat types, particularly 5410 (Anthyllis hermanniae phrygana), with which it often ‘co-occurs’.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information This habitat type is frequent in the Maltese Islands, particularly along dry valley side known in Maltese as widien (singular: wied). The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 93
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 93
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 5410
0.2 b) Habitat name West Mediterranean clifftop phryganas (Astragalo-Plantaginetum subulatae)

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 92
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 71
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Anthyllis hermanniae subsp. melitensis
Carlina involucrata
Chiliadenus bocconei
Convolvulus lineatus
Erica multiflora
Euphorbia melitensis
Hypericum aegypticum
Lotus cytisoides
Periploca angustifolia
Prasium majus
Rhamnus oleoides
Sanguisorba minor
Satureja microphylla
Scabiosa maritima
Teucrium flavum
Teucrium fruticans
Thymus capitatus
Urginea pancration
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat type is identified by the clear dominance of Anthyllis hermanniae subsp. melitensis and Thymus capitatus; it is common in the Maltese Islands, and quite widespread, although its extent is dependent on the interpretation given to the pre-desert scrub and labiate garigue communities. Overall, the structure and function of this habitat is excellent in relatively inaccessible areas, and becomes invaded by alien species and ermes communities, particularly Asphodelus aestivus, Urginea pancration, and various thistles and umbellifers, following degradation caused by trampling, dumping, various constructions, roads and paths and other man-induced disturbance. This leads to a reduction in habitat quality, a change in species composition, and in the rarefaction of the most vulnerable species.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 63
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 63
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 5420
0.2 b) Habitat name Sarcopoterium spinosum phryganas

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2011-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Briffa, M. (1986). Two Interesting Additions to the Flora of the Maltese Islands. Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 1(4): 85-86. (n.v.; as quoted by Lanfranco, 1989)

Hili, M. (2006): Micropropagation of Sarcopoterium spinosum (L.) Spach. and Aristolochia clusii Lojacono – Two Plant Species which are Critically Endangered in the Maltese Islands. Unpublished M.Sc. Dissertation. University of Malta.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. and Sultana, J. (Eds). Red Data Book of the Maltese Islands. Department of Information.

EPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 1
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 1
2.4.2 Year or period 2011-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
D01.01 - paths, tracks, cycling tracks L - low importance
G01.02 - walking, horseriding and non-motorised vehicles L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
G04.01 - Military manoeuvres L - low importance
I01 - invasive non-native species L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
D01.01 - paths, tracks, cycling tracks L - low importance
G01.02 - walking, horseriding and non-motorised vehicles L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse L - low importance
G04.01 - Military manoeuvres L - low importance
I01 - invasive non-native species L - low importance
K04 - Interspecific floral relations L - low importance
J01 - fire and fire suppression L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Ajuga iva s.l.
Anthyllis hermanniae
Asphodelus aestivus
Carlina involucrata
Phagnalon graecum
Sanguisorba minor
Sarcopoterium spinosum
Satureja microphylla
Scabiosa maritima
Teucrium fruticans
Thymus capitatus
Urginea pancration
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat type, confined to one locality, colonises the karstland that typifies the topography of the area. In general, the typical species include species which are also known to characterise other types of phrygana habitats. Ermes communities, mostly typified in the area by Asphodelus and Urginea, with Carlina involucrata, are also known from the area covered by this habitat.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information This habitat type is dominated by Sarcopoterium spinosum, a species confined to the locality of Pembroke. Apart from legal protection of the site and protection of the habitat type per se, further measures are required to achieve favourable conditions. In view of this, a project was carried out under the aegis of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA), in collaboration with the University of Malta, to reinforce the extant population found at Pembroke. However, unfortunately, it was not deemed to have been particularly successful. Nonetheless, the status of the habitat during this reporting period is known to have remained more or less stable. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded - in this case one grid cell.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend = - stable
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend = - stable
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 1
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 1
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.4 - Specific single species or species group management measures One Off M - medium importance Inside Enchance No Effect
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 5430
0.2 b) Habitat name Endemic phryganas of the Euphorbio-Verbascion

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 33
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 33
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials L - low importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials L - low importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Anthyllis hermanniae
Crucianella rupestris
Erica multiflora
Hyoseris frutescens
Hypericum aegypticum
Periploca angustifolia
Phagnalon spp.
Prasium majus
Teucrium flavum
Teucrium fruticans
Thymus capitatus
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This specific habitat type is essentially found along the coastal area of the Maltese Islands and is mostly differentiated from related habitat types by the dominance of Hypericum aegypticum. It may not represent a specific habitat type per se, since it also co-occurs with other related habitat types, particularly phrygana and scrub vegetation with Anthyllis hermanniae subsp. melitensis, Euphorbia melitensis and Euphorbia dendroides, amongst others.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The range and area of this habitat type are considered the same, although in practice the constituent species of this habitat are present in most rocky coastal areas of the Maltese Islands, particularly along the north-western to southern parts of the Maltese Islands, which include expanses of coralline limestone. In view of this, and noting that some of its distribution includes relatively inaccessible areas, the relative quality is good, with the main threats being related to habitat alteration brought by trampling in selected accessible sites (which leads to invasion by other species, including native ones), or the introduction of alien species, particularly the naturalised Agave, Carpobrotus and Opuntia. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 32
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 32
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal H - high importance Both Maintain
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal H - high importance Both Maintain
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 6220
0.2 b) Habitat name Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Brullo, C.; Brullo, S.; Giusso del Galdo, G.; Guarino, R.; Minissale, P.; Scuderi, L.; Siracusa, G.; Sciandrello, S. & Spampinato, G. (2010): The Lygeo-Stipetea Class in Sicily. Annali di Botanica (Roma), Vol 0 (2010): np. Available at: http://annalidibotanica.uniroma1.it/index.php/Annalidibotanica/article/download/9119/9059 (accessed on 29 May 2013).

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

San Miguel, A. (2008): Management of Natura 2000 Habitats. 6220 *Pseudo-steppe with Grasses and Annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea. European Commission, 23pp.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 153
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method Yes
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 136
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method Yes
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species H - high importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
A04 - grazing L - low importance
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
D01 - Roads, paths and railroads M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
F04 - Taking / Removal of terrestrial plants, general M - medium importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse M - medium importance
L09 - fire (natural) M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
I02 - problematic native species H - high importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Allium spp.
Astragalus spp.
Bellis spp.
Brachypodium retusum
Bromus fasciculatus
Catapodium spp.
Daucus spp.
Desmazeria pignattii
Euphorbia exigua
Euphorbia pycnophylla
Freesia refracta
Hedysarum spinosissimum
Lagurus ovatus
Linaria pseudolaxiflora
Lotus spp.
Medicago spp.
Moraea sisyrinchium
Orchidaceae
Oxalis pes-caprae
Plantago coronopus s.l.
Romulea melitensis
Senecio pygmaeus
Stipa capensis
Trachynia distachya
Trifolium spp.
2.7.2 Typical species - method used Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals are common in the Maltese Islands, with considerable variability in relation to sub-types, range and frequency, as well as habitats they occupy. Such grasslands are found on various substrates – ranging from clays which dry out in the dry season to very xeric karstic pockets with limited soil in limestone. The vegetation also various and includes perennials, like for instance Lygeum spartum, Hyparrhenia hirta, Andropogon distachyos, Pipthatherum miliaceum and Arundo plinii auct. fl. Melit., to nanotherophytes, which are very diverse and include various plant species, of which the Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Poaceae are particularly relevant. For practical reasons, the vegetation occurring in clay slopes is classed with habitat type 1510, which incorporates many of the perennial grasses and related species, particularly Lygeum spartum, and often overlaps with habitat type 1240, particularly in clay slopes in close proximity to the sea, due to the small size of the Maltese Islands. The small annual Mediterranean xeric vegetation classed as 6220 in this reporting sheet occurs all over the Maltese Islands, particularly within karst along areas with steppic, garigue, phrygana, pre-desert scrub and selected maquis vegetation (such as habitat type 9570 with Tetraclinis), in both coastal and more inland sites. The species diversity is very high and depends on the areas where found. For instance, selected areas may be dominated by ‘taller’ grasses like Brachypodium retusum or Stipa capensis, with ‘smaller’ grasses in more karstic and dry substrata, such as Bromus fasciculatus and Trachynia distachya (= Brachypodium distachyon) which occur in very karstic rocks with limited soil, even inland; species accompanying such grasses include Atractylis cancellata, Euphorbia exigua and the related sub-endemic Euphorbia pycnophylla and Crupina crupinastrum. In more coastal areas, species like Catapodium spp., Sedum litoreum, Matricaria aurea (very rare), Medicago monspeliaca (= Trigonella monspeliaca), various plant taxa belonging to the Plantago coronopus group, as well as taxa with a very restricted distribution in the Mediterranean (which include Maltese endemics), such as Allium lojaconoi, Anthemis urvilleana, Daucus lopadusanus, Desmazeria pignattii, Linaria pseudolaxiflora and Senecio pygmaeus may occur. Small geophytes are also found in such karst habitats, particularly when these pockets are able to retain more humidity; such species include the endemic Romulea melitensis and the very common Moraea sisyrinchium (= Gynandriris sisyrinchium), as well as the autumn flora based on Prospero autumnale (= Scilla autumnalis) and Ranunculus spp. In areas with slightly deeper soils and increased water-retention, species like Bellis spp., Trifolium spp., Medicago spp. and Lotus spp. also occur, the latter leguminous species becoming dominant in selected areas. Various Orchidaceae, including the endemic Anacamptis urvilleana and Ophrys melitensis, also occur within this habitat type.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information Habitat quality and species diversity varies according to the extent of disturbance, whether natural or man-made, the various sub-type(s) present, or the extent of fire and grazing, the latter mostly by wild Oryctolagus cuniculus and domestic sheep and goats. In general, man-made disturbance is the main impact – where anthropogenic disturbance increases, ermes vegetation may develop, with Ferula communis, Foeniculum vulgare, Galactites tomentosa, Asphodelus aestivus and Urginea pancration, this to the detriment of the nanotherophytic species; this is particularly relevant in marginal areas close to urban settlements or country lanes. Alien species impacting this habitat type have also been noted, with the main invading species being Oxalis pes-caprae, although this species tends to dry in early winter, allowing spring flowering plants to bloom unhindered. However, a number of areas are still in a very good condition, and house endogean species which require little disturbance and which have a restricted distribution in the Mediterranean, such as the endemic beetle, Torneuma strictum. Other relevant fauna known from karstic sub-types of this habitat include the endemic snails, Muticaria macrostoma, Lampedusa imitatrix, Lampedusa melitensis and Trochoidea spratti. This habitat is also important as a feeding ground for many other macrofauna species, including various reptiles, like Chalcides ocellatus, Podarcis filfolensis, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, geckoes and snakes, Oryctolagus cuniculus, as well as birds and bats. Hence, noting that the habitat in itself is widespread and overall common in the Maltese Islands, and that the range and area are considered as favourable, and noting the variability and species richness of this habitat type, its structure and function and future prospects are also considered as such. The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 118
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 118
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal H - high importance Both Maintain Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 8210
0.2 b) Habitat name Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Brullo, S. & Marcenó, C. (1979): Dianthion rupicolae, Nouvelle Alliance Sud-Tyrrhénienne des Asplenietalia Glandulosi. Documents Phytosociologiques., 4: 1-17.

Brullo, S. & Pavone, P. (1987): Cremnophyton lanfrancoi: a new Genus and Species of Chenopodiaceae from Malta. Candollea, 42: 621-625.

Brullo, S.; Lanfranco, E.; Pavone, P. & Ronsisvalle, G. (1988): Taxonomical Notes on the Endemic Flora of Malta. Giornale Botanico Italiano, 122(1): 45.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70. Malta: Environment Division.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part 2: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85. Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 94
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 90
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying H - high importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials M - medium importance
G01.04.01 - mountaineering & rock climbing L - low importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities L - low importance
K01.01 - Erosion M - medium importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide H - high importance
L10 - other natural catastrophes M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
G01.03 - motorised vehicles L - low importance
G05.01 - Trampling, overuse L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying M - medium importance
E03.03 - disposal of inert materials L - low importance
G01.04.01 - mountaineering & rock climbing L - low importance
G01.08 - other outdoor sports and leisure activities L - low importance
K01.01 - Erosion M - medium importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide H - high importance
L10 - other natural catastrophes M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
L09 - fire (natural) L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Coronilla valentina
Cremnophyton lanfrancoi
Crucianella rupestris
Darniella melitensis
Daucus gingidium s.l.
Daucus rupestris
Helichrysum melitense
Hyoseris frutescens
Hypericum aegypticum
Jacobaea maritima subsp. Sicula
Limonium melitensis
Matthiola incana subsp. melitensis
Palaeocyanus crassifolius
Phagnalon graecum subsp. ginzbergeri
Phagnalon rupestre
Senecio leucanthemifolius
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This community is typical of the local rdum communities, which also include sheer coralline limestone cliffs and cliff plateau. It is typified by a specialised vegetation assemblage, which is characterised by many Maltese endemic species, a number of which are palaeoendemics. Although area and range of this habitat type are more-or-less unaltered in the last decade and habitat quality is still relatively good, there is some decline in certain areas due to human pressures. Moreover, the increase in cover and abundance of various invasive alien species, such as Carpobrotus spp., Agave spp. and Opuntia spp., is adding further pressure on these habitats.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.4.1 (and 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of this habitat type has been recorded, which was hence used to attain the range value in 2.3.1 (also based on 1x1 km grid cells).
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 83
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 83
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Administrative Contractual H - high importance Inside Maintain Enchance
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal H - high importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 8310
0.2 b) Habitat name Caves not open to the public

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) (1989): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Malta: Department of Information, viii + 142pp. + 8 plates.

Schembri, P.J; Lanfranco, E.; Farrugia, P.; Schembri, S. & Sultana, J. (1987): Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands. Malta: Environment Division, Ministry of Education, iii + 27pp.

Vesselinov Lalov, S.; Seginkova, A. & Sultana, J. (2008): Rediscovery of Asplenium sagittatum and A. marinum (Pteridophyta: Aspleniaceae) in the Maltese Islands (Central Mediterranean). The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 4(4): 235-241.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 16
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 16
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying H - high importance
E01 - Urbanised areas, human habitation M - medium importance
D01.02 - roads, motorways M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site H - high importance
G01.04.01 - mountaineering & rock climbing L - low importance
G01.04.03 - recreational cave visits L - low importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
L10 - other natural catastrophes L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
C01 - Mining and quarrying H - high importance
E01 - Urbanised areas, human habitation M - medium importance
D01.02 - roads, motorways M - medium importance
D05 - Improved access to site H - high importance
G01.04.01 - mountaineering & rock climbing L - low importance
G01.04.03 - recreational cave visits L - low importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
L10 - other natural catastrophes L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Adiantum capillus-veneris
Anogramma leptophylla
Armadillidium aelleni
Armadillidium ghardalamensis
Asplenium sagittatum
Asplenium trichomanes
Chaetophiloscia cellaria
Chthonius girgentiensis
Eukoenenia christiani
Laemostenus picicornis melitensis
Myotis punicus
Pipistrellus kuhli
Pipistrellus pygmaeus
Plecotus austriacus
Rhinolophus hipposideros
Roncus melitensis
Sepedophilus marshami
Trichoniscus matulicii
Trichorina bonadonai
Trichorina paolae
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The species listed are essentially plants, bats and invertebrates (arachnids, crustaceans and insects) known from some of the inaccessible caves / caves not open to the public in the Maltese Islands.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 1 - Estimate based on expert opinion with no or minimal sampling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The data included is based on surveys commissioned in connection with important bat sites in the Maltese Islands, literature review, and/or targeted site visits. According to literature, the most important caves are found in mainland Malta, particularly in the Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: Ir-Ramla taċ-Ċirkewwa sal-Ponta ta& Bengħisa Natura 2000 site (MT0000024); it is plausible that such caves also exist along the cliffs of Gozo; these however are not easily accessible. Many other caves are known, but these are often open to the public, in some cases exploited as tourist attractions. The surface area indicated (2.4.1 & 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded. The surface area - range (2.3.1) has been given equivalent to the surface area (2.4.1), since it is not deemed relevant to consider a different range for this habitat, at least at this stage when limited data is available, noting the nature of this habitat type, and also noting the restricted area of the Maltese Islands.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment XX - Unknown
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 9
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 9
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 8330
0.2 b) Habitat name Submerged or partially submerged sea caves

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MMED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MMED - Marine Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Aquilina, S. (1995): Treasures of the Maltese Waters. Part One: Shore Dives. Malta: Aquilina Enterprises Ltd, 63pp.

Lemon, P.G. (ND): Scuba Diving Malta, Gozo, Comino. United Kingdom: MGP Books Group, 224pp.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Middleton, N. (1997): Maltese Islands Diving Guide. Malta: Miller Distributors Ltd, 167pp.

Wood, L. & Wood, L. (1999): The Dive Sites of Malta, Comino & Gozo. Comprehensive Coverage of Diving and Snorkelling. Malta: Progress Press, 111pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 28
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 28
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
G01.07 - scubadiving, snorkelling H - high importance
H03.01 - oil spills in the sea L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
G01.07 - scubadiving, snorkelling H - high importance
H03.01 - oil spills in the sea L - low importance
L10 - other natural catastrophes M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Astroides calycularis
Axinella canabina
Axinella polypoides
Bispira volutacornis
Cenanthus membranceus
Clathrina clathrus
Clavelina lepadiformis
Cliona sp.
Halocinthya papillosa
Lithophyllum spp.
Myriapora truncata
Oscarella lobularis
Parazoanthus axinellae
Protula tubularia
Pycnoclavella nana
Reteporella septentrionalis
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The species mentioned here are known to occur in this habitat type and have been used in the determination of the location of relevant caves. However, it should be noted that these species are not exclusive to such caves.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The extent of submerged or partially submerged caves is mostly known in relation to the coastal area of the Maltese Islands. Other caves may occur, and will be subject to further surveys in relation to the LIFE BaĦAR for N2K project due to commence in October 2013. The mapped caves cover quite a considerable extent, and the range is considered to be favourable; however, further assessment on the structure and functions is required, and for this reason the status for this parameter has been indicated as ‘Unknown’. The surface area indicated (2.3.1, 2.4.1 & 3.1.1) is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment XX - Unknown
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 10
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 15
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.3 - Regulation/ Management of fishery in marine and brackish systems Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain
8.3 - Managing marine traffic Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal M - medium importance Both Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 92A0
0.2 b) Habitat name Salix alba and Populus alba galleries

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2008-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Grech Delicata, J.C. (1853): Flora Melitensis. Malta: xvi + 49pp.

Gulia, G. (1875): Maltese Botany: Order Salicaceae. Il Barth, 4(1): 10.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1988): Conservation of the Maltese Flora. In: Baldacchino, A.E. (ed.) State of the Environment Report 1985: A Comparative Aid to the State of the Environment Today. Malta, np.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70; Malta: Department of Information.

Lanfranco, E. (1990): Is-Safsafa. In-Natura, 10: 4-6.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.

Zerafa, S. (1827): Flora Melitensis Thesaurus, Fasciculus Primo. Valletta, iv + 36pp.

Zerafa, S. (1831): Flora Melitensis Thesaurus, Fasciculus Alter. Valletta, iv + 36pp.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 9
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 9
2.4.2 Year or period 2008-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B02 - Forest and Plantation management & use M - medium importance
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
J02 - human induced changes in hydraulic conditions H - high importance
J01.01 - burning down M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B02 - Forest and Plantation management & use M - medium importance
A08 - Fertilisation L - low importance
J02 - human induced changes in hydraulic conditions H - high importance
J01.01 - burning down M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
E03 - Discharges M - medium importance
J02.12.02 - dykes and flooding defence in inland water systems M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Fraxinus angustifolia
Populus alba
Salix alba
Salix pedicellata
Ulmus canescens
Ulmus minor
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The assessment is based on the type of community present and its extent, evident human impact, cover of Arundo donax (where found), and future prospects (which is in most instances bad, due to the extinction of female willow trees from Malta, the rarity of female poplar trees, and hybridisation in elm trees).
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information The native riparian forests are almost completely extinct from the Maltese Islands, and the existing range is only a fraction of the former range of this habitat type, as can be extrapolated from the literature records available since 1827. Only relicts survive in selected areas. This is mostly due to competition with agriculture and the need for water resources. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend = - stable
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend = - stable
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U2 - Bad
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U2 - Bad
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U2 - Bad
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 9
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 9
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.1 - Restoring/improving forest habitats Administrative One Off H - high importance Outside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 92D0
0.2 b) Habitat name Southern riparian galleries and thickets (Nerio-Tamaricetea and Securinegion tinctoriae)

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2008-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70; Malta: Department of Information.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 20
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 20
2.4.2 Year or period 2008-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
J02.07.01 - groundwater abstractions for agriculture M - medium importance
A08 - Fertilisation M - medium importance
J02.05 - Modification of hydrographic functioning, general M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
B01 - forest planting on open ground L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
J02.07.01 - groundwater abstractions for agriculture M - medium importance
A08 - Fertilisation M - medium importance
J02.05 - Modification of hydrographic functioning, general M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
B01 - forest planting on open ground L - low importance
J01 - fire and fire suppression M - medium importance
L07 - storm, cyclone M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Tamarix africana
Tamarix gallica
Vitex agnus-castus
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The Nerio-Tamaricetea community is very rare and is mostly confined to inaccessible coastal areas and some valleys with an adequate water supply from springs or watercourses, particularly on the island of Gozo. It is much rarer in Malta and Comino, where the coastal woodlands have suffered from historical destruction in view of invasions, agriculture and construction. Indeed, Nerium oleander is believed to have become extinct from the Maltese Islands; the species is now naturalised in a few valleys in Malta and Gozo. The assessment is based on the type of community present and its extent, evident human impact, cover of alien species (including Aster squamatus, Conyza bonariensis, Acacia spp. and Ailanthus altissima) & reeds (especially Arundo donax and Phragmites australis), and future prospects.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information The surface area indicated in 2.3.1 and in 2.4.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded. The values given under 3.1.1 are then based on the habitat mapping considered for the Natura 2000 data flow.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend = - stable
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend = - stable
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend - - declining
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend - - declining
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status - - declining

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 15
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 15
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.1 - Restoring/improving forest habitats Administrative Contractual Recurrent H - high importance Inside Enchance Long-term
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative Contractual Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 9320
0.2 b) Habitat name Olea and Ceratonia forests

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Brincat, J.M. (1995): Malta 870-1054 Al-Himyarî‘s Account and its Linguistic Implications. Malta: Said International, 52pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) (1989): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Malta: Department of Information, viii + 142pp. + 8 plates.

Schembri, P.J; Lanfranco, E.; Farrugia, P.; Schembri, S. & Sultana, J. (1987): Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands. Malta: Environment Division, Ministry of Education, iii + 27pp.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 24
2.3.2 Method used Range 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator ≈ - approximately equal to
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 24
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators ≈ - approximately equal to
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B02.04 - removal of dead and dying trees M - medium importance
A04.03 - abandonment of pastoral systems, lack of grazing H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
J01.01 - burning down H - high importance
B07 - Forestry activities not referred to above M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B02.04 - removal of dead and dying trees M - medium importance
A04.03 - abandonment of pastoral systems, lack of grazing H - high importance
I01 - invasive non-native species H - high importance
J01.01 - burning down H - high importance
B07 - Forestry activities not referred to above M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Asparagus aphyllus
Ceratonia siliqua
Clematis cirrhosa
Crataegus spp.
Hedera helix
Laurus nobilis
Olea europaea
Pistacia lentiscus
Prunus dulcis
Punica granatum
Rhamnus alaternus
Rhamnus oleoides
Rubia peregrina
Smilax aspera
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The structure and functions of this habitat are influenced by the presence of selected species, often of archaeophytic origin, due to their past/present economic use, including Punica granatum, Prunus dulcis and Crataegus azarolus (the latter being very rare). Some alien species may occur, particularly Ailanthus altissima, Ricinus communis (especially near streams) and Schinus terebinthifolius.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
2.7.5 Other relevant information Very few maquis sites in the Maltese Islands would qualify under this code, as most carobs are found isolated at the margins of fields, both in Malta and Gozo. Moreover, Gozo is relatively tree-less, it being predominantly agricultural and intensively cultivated. In Comino, this habitat is very rare; however, trees forming such habitat types have been planted in the area in the past - these are also included here. In fact, close clumps of Oleo-Ceratonion maquis encountered in the Maltese Islands during the surveys have been mapped. This habitat type usually occurs along impenetrable valley sides and inaccessible areas, in which cases it was consequently not mapped. Notwithstanding this, this type of maquis is on the increase in the Maltese Islands, particularly due to abandonment of agriculture - this is hence a positive pressure in this case. In fact, a number of constituent species, like Rhamnus alaternus, which were considered very rare, are also increasing, probably due to the same reason, as well as the reduction of grazing by sheep and goats. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.1 b) Range Trend
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.2 b) Area Trend
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment FV - Favourable
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status FV - Favourable
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 24
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 24
3.1.2 Method used 2 - Estimate based on partial data with some extrapolation and/or modelling
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
9.1 - Regulating/Management exploitation of natural resources on land Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Maintain
3.1 - Restoring/improving forest habitats Administrative One Off M - medium importance Outside Maintain

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 9340
0.2 b) Habitat name Quercus ilex and Quercus rotundifolia forests

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1922): Cultivation and Diseases of Fruit Trees in the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, v + 622pp.

Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Borg, J. (1933): Memo on Certain Trees Deserving to be Classed as National Monuments for the Purposes of the Antiquities Preservation Act. The Malta Government Gazette, July 19th, pp. 540-546.

Borg, J. (1995): The Story of the Maltese Forest. Malta: Media Centre, iv + 12pp.

Grech, C.F. (1996): Il-Balluta - Siġret il-Masġar Malti. In-Natura, 16: 4-10. [in Maltese]

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70; Malta: Department of Information.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J. (1991): Malta Structure Plan Technical Report 5.4: Report of Survey - Natural Resources. Malta: Colin Buchanan and Partners, Generale Progetti S.p.A. & Planning Services Division (Malta), viii + 138pp.

Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) (1989): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Malta: Department of Information, viii + 142pp. + 8 plates.

Schembri, P.J; Lanfranco, E.; Farrugia, P.; Schembri, S. & Sultana, J. (1987): Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands. Malta: Environment Division, Ministry of Education, iii + 27pp.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T. (2001): Malta Country Report. In: Borelli, S. & Varela, M.C. (eds.) Mediterranean Oaks Network, Report of the First Meeting 12-14 October 2000, Antalya (Turkey), pp. 45-47. Italy: European Forest Genetic Resources Programme, International Plant Genetic Resources Institute.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 10
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 10
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide H - high importance
D05 - Improved access to site L - low importance
B02.04 - removal of dead and dying trees M - medium importance
B02.03 - removal of forest undergrowth L - low importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide H - high importance
D05 - Improved access to site L - low importance
B02.04 - removal of dead and dying trees M - medium importance
B02.03 - removal of forest undergrowth L - low importance
J01.01 - burning down L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Asparagus aphyllus
Ceratonia siliqua
Clematis cirrhosa
Lonicera implexa
Myrtus communis
Olea europaea
Pistacia lentiscus
Quercus ilex
Rhamnus alaternus
Smilax aspera
Thymus capitatus
2.7.2 Typical species - method used The assessment is based on the type of Quercus ilex community present, whether climbers, maquis or garigue/phrygana undergrowth is present, and the extent of invasion by aliens. Two types of communities exist in Malta: (a) closed-canopy oak forest remnants, as at Mġiebaħ, with climbers and limited light beneath the oak canopies, consequently reducing the maquis species undergrowth; (b) open canopy type, with maquis undergrowth, as at Il-Ballut. Degraded forms, often due to human influence (e.g. trampling, litter, fire, recreational activities), include a higher coverage of maquis species, occurrence of garigue/phrygana species and also show the invasion of other species as the invasive alien Ailanthus altissima. The assessment in terms of biodiversity complement is also based upon records of mycoflora and fauna reported from the different locations.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information The four remaining copses of holm oak are all currently protected, and there has been no reduction in their area in the two reporting periods, following their protection through various legislation issued through the Environment Protection Act. While one copse had suffered considerable losses due to man-induced fire in the 1990s, another copse has decreased slightly in area in this reporting period due to the collapse of adjacent boulders caused by natural events. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend = - stable
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend = - stable
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 10
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 10
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.1 - Restoring/improving forest habitats Administrative Contractual Recurrent One Off H - high importance Both Enchance
6.4 - Manage landscape features Legal Recurrent M - medium importance Inside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 9540
0.2 b) Habitat name Mediterranean pine forests with endemic Mesogean pines

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Brincat, J.M. (1995): Malta 870-1054 Al-Himyarî‘s Account and its Linguistic Implications. Malta: Said International, 52pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 6
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 6
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
D05 - Improved access to site L - low importance
B02.04 - removal of dead and dying trees M - medium importance
B02.03 - removal of forest undergrowth L - low importance
J01.01 - burning down M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
D05 - Improved access to site L - low importance
B02.04 - removal of dead and dying trees M - medium importance
B02.03 - removal of forest undergrowth L - low importance
J01.01 - burning down M - medium importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Acacia saligna
Asphodelus aestivus
Ceratonia siliqua
Cupressus sempervirens
Freesia refracta
Laurus nobilis
Ophrys melitensis
Ophrys spp.
Oxalis pes-caprae
Pistacia lentiscus
Quercus ilex
Rhamnus alaternus
Urginea pancration
2.7.2 Typical species - method used Pine forests in Malta are all semi-natural, and are known as either: (a) relatively closed-canopy communities on adequate soil and with some macrophyte undergrowth with intermixing maquis and garigue communities, the latter on stone outcrops; or (b) as ‘pseudo-open’ communities in rock crevices, intermixed amongst garigue/phrygana species. The extent of occurrence of other accompanying and undergrowth species depends on this variable. The occurrence of alien species, often remnants of inappropriate afforestation, as Acacia saligna, Ailanthus communis and Cupressus sempervirens, or invasion, as in the case of Freesia refracta and Oxalis pes-caprae, were noted in the assessment related to structure and function; as well as the occurrence of an adequate mycoflora and other pine-associated species, particularly selected Ophrys species (including Ophrys melitensis).
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information Although this data refers to the extent in the last two reporting periods, it should be noted that Pinus halepensis was reported as possibly extinct from Malta (refer to Stevens & Baldacchino, 2000), and all local populations are semi-natural. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1, 2.4.1 and 3.1.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend = - stable
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend = - stable
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend = - stable
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 6
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 6
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.1 - Restoring/improving forest habitats Administrative One Off M - medium importance Outside Enchance
6.4 - Manage landscape features Administrative One Off L - low importance Inside Enchance

Habitat Report

0.1 Member State MT - Malta
0.2 a) Habitat code 9570
0.2 b) Habitat name Tetraclinis articulata forests

1. National level

1.1 Maps
1.1.1. Distribution map Yes
1.1.2 Method used - map 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
1.1.3 Year or period 2004-2012
1.1.4. Additional distribution map (Optional) No
1.1.5 Range map Yes

Biogeographic regions and/or marine regions concerned within the member state: MED

2. Biogeographical or marine level

Regional level
2.1 Biogeographical region or marine regions MED - Mediterranean
2.2 Published sources Abela, G.F. (1647): Della Descrittione di Malta: Isola nel Mare Siciliano con le sue Antichità, ed altre Notizie. Malta: Paolo Bonacota, xiv + 573 pp. Printed as a facsimile edition in 1984 by MidSea Books Ltd. (Malta) as the Melitensia Book Club Issue no. 1.

Borg, J. (1915): Agriculture & Horticulture in Malta. In: McMillan, A. (ed.) Malta and Gibraltar Illustrated, pp. 224-239. London: W.H. & L. Colingridge.

Borg, J. (1922): Cultivation and Diseases of Fruit Trees in the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, vii + 622pp.

Borg, J. (1927): Descriptive Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Government Printing Office, 846pp.

Brincat, J.M. (1995): Malta 870-1054 Al-Himyarî‘s Account and its Linguistic Implications. Malta: Said International, 52pp.

Haslam, S.M.; Sell, P.D. & Wolseley, P.A. (1977): A Flora of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Malta University Press, lxxi + 560pp.

Lanfranco, E. (1989): The Flora. In: Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands, pp. 5-70; Malta: Department of Information.

Lanfranco, E. (1996): Part II: Plants. In: Sultana, J. & Falzon, V. (eds.): Wildlife of the Maltese Islands, pp. 28-85, 132-158; Malta: Environment Protection Department.

MEPA. (2007): Habitats Directive: Report on Implementation Measures. Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Available at: http://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/mt/eu/art17/ (accessed on 15 May 2013).

Schembri, P.J. & Sultana, J. (eds.) (1989): Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Malta: Department of Information, viii + 142pp. + 8 plates.

Schembri, P.J; Lanfranco, E.; Farrugia, P.; Schembri, S. & Sultana, J. (1987): Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands. Malta: Environment Division, Ministry of Education, iii + 27pp.

Sommier, S. (1906): [Article without title, but referred to in literature as: ‘Sulla scoperta della Callitris quadrivalvis Rich. a Malta’]. Bullettino della Società Botanica Italiana, XX: 115.

Sommier, S. & Caruana Gatto, A. (1915): Flora Melitensis Nova. Firenze: Stabilimento Pellas, viii + 502pp.

Stevens, D.T. (1996): Planting Trees VI: The Alerce. Il-Balluta, 32: 8-9.

Stevens, D.T, & Baldacchino, A.E. (2000): Siġar Maltin, Siġar Barranin, il-Ħarsien tagħhom u l-Obbligi Nazzjonali u Internazzjonali. In: Baldacchino, A.E. & Stevens, D.T. (eds.) Is-Siġar Maltin: l-Użu u l-Importanza, pp. 53-100. Malta: Environment Protection Department.
2.3 Range
2.3.1 Surface area Range 12
2.3.2 Method used Range 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.3.3 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.3.4 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.3.5 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.5 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.6 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.3.7 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.3.8 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.3.8 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.3.9 a) Favourable reference range - km²
2.3.9 b) Favourable reference range - operator > - more than
2.3.9 c) Favourable reference range - unknown No
2.3.9 d) Favourable reference range - method used to set reference value
2.3.10 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.3.10 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.3.10 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.4 Area covered by habitat
2.4.1 Surface area 6
2.4.2 Year or period 2004-2012
2.4.3 Method used Area covered by habitat 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.4 Short-term trend Period 2001-2012
2.4.5 Short-term trend Trend direction 0 - stable
2.4.6 a) Short-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.6 b) Short-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.6 c) Short-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.7 Short-term trend Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.4.8 Long-term trend Period (Optional)
2.4.9 Long-term trend Trend direction (Optional)
2.4.10 a) Long-term trend Magnitude - Minimum (Optional)
2.4.10 b) Long-term trend Magnitude - Maximum (Optional)
2.4.10 c) Long-term trend Magnitude - Confidence interval (Optional)
2.4.11 Long-term trend Method used (Optional)
2.4.12 a) Favourable reference area - km²
2.4.12 b) Favourable reference area - operators > - more than
2.4.12 c) Favourable reference area - unknown No
2.4.12 d) Favourable reference area - method used to set reference value
2.4.13 a) Reason for change - genuine change No
2.4.13 b) Reason for change - improved knowledge/more accurate data Yes
2.4.13 c) Reason for change - use of different method No
2.5 Main pressures
a) Pressure b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B01 - forest planting on open ground L - low importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide L - low importance
J01.01 - burning down L - low importance
I01 - invasive non-native species M - medium importance
2.5.1 Method used - pressures 2 - mainly based on expert judgement and other data
2.6 Main threats
a) Threats b) Ranking c) Pollution Qualifier(s)
B01 - forest planting on open ground L - low importance
L05 - collapse of terrain, landslide L - low importance
J01.01 - burning down M - medium importance
I01 - invasive non-native species L - low importance
2.6.1 Method used - threats 1 - expert opinion
2.7 Complementary information
2.7.1 Typical species
Andropogon distachyus
Asparagus aphyllus
Asphodelus aestivus
Brachypodium retusum
Ceratonia siliqua
Chiliadenus bocconei
Euphorbia melitensis
Hyparrhenia hirta
Opuntia ficus-barbarica
Periploca angustifolia
Piptatherum caerulescens
Rhamnus oleoides
Tetraclinis articulata
Teucrium fruticans
Urginea pancration
2.7.2 Typical species - method used This habitat occurs on garigue and steep rock face communities found on coralline limestones and calcareous soils. The vegetation of these areas is usually that typical of the thermo-Mediterranean region, with plants adapted to considerable dry periods, with chamaephytic shrubs, geophytes or therophytes. Tetraclinis abundance and coverage, community structure in terms of presence/absence of associated species, regeneration, the occurrence of ermes vegetation and the presence of alien species (including Acacia saligna, Eucalyptus spp., Pinus halepensis and Arundo donax) were noted. The assessment in terms of biodiversity complement is based upon records of endemic fauna reported from the different locations.
2.7.3 Justification of % thresholds for trends
2.7.4 Structure and functions - Methods used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
2.7.5 Other relevant information The extant populations have been monitored, and there seems to be no change in range in the last two reporting periods. The surface area indicated in 2.3.1 and in 2.4.1 is based on the number of 1x1 km grid cells in which the presence of the habitat type has been recorded. The range of this habitat type includes grid cells in which single trees of Tetraclinis are present, which have not been included in the distribution map since it is deemed that individual single trees do not constitute the habitat type per se, but may represent an extension of its range or potential habitat for the species.
2.8 Conclusions
2.8.1 a) Range Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.1 b) Range Trend = - stable
2.8.2 a) Area Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.2 b) Area Trend = - stable
2.8.3 a) Specific structures and functions Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.3 b) Specific structures and functions Trend = - stable
2.8.4 a) Future prospects Assessment U1 - Inadequate
2.8.4 b) Future prospects Trend + - improving
2.8.5 Overall assessment of Conservation Status U1 - Inadequate
2.8.6 Overall trend in Conservation Status = - stable

3. Natura 2000 coverage & conservation measures
3.1 Area covered by habitat
3.1.1 a) Surface area (within network) Minimum 4
3.1.1 b) Surface area (within network) Maximum 4
3.1.2 Method used 3 - Complete survey/Complete survey or a statistically robust estimate
3.1.3 Trend of surface area within the network (Optional) 0 - stable
3.2 Conservation measures
3.2.1 Measure 3.2.2 Type 3.2.3 Ranking 3.2.4 Location 3.2.5 Broad Evaluation
6.1 - Establish protected areas/sites Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
6.3 - Legal protection of habitats and species Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
7.1 - Regulation/ Management of hunting and taking Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
3.0 - Other forestry-related measures Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term
9.1 - Regulating/Management exploitation of natural resources on land Legal Recurrent H - high importance Both Enchance Long-term