Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1525429
12 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 16 AUGUST 2024 NEWS During the summer months on Gozo, you will often see the Maltese wall lizard. The lizard was originally thought to be a variety of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) of mainland Europe. For example, the naturalist Andrew Leith Adams writing in 1870 reported "the common lizard (Podarcis mura/is)" as occurring on the islands. In 1876, Dr. J. Bedriaga named this Maltese variety filjolensis since the animals he studied came from the islet of Filfla. Later studies, however, showed that the lizards of the Maltese Islands were actually quite different from the common wall lizard or any other species in the region and therefore Bedriaga's filjolensis became established as a distinct species whose full modern name is Podarcis filjolensis – the Maltese wall lizard. Did you know? JSL Properties is a property development company focusing on delivering high-quality property projects in Gozo, ensuring exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. We are committed to providing affordable and stylish living solutions that cater to diverse needs and preferences. +356 99486960 Maltese wall lizard THE Gozo Tourism Association has expressed its concern after a slimy residue has been discovered in Hon- doq ir-Rummien Bay. This popular beach is one of the three blue flagged beaches on Gozo. Furthermore, it is one of the sought after summer spots both by tourists and local alike. According to reports filed with the Environment and Resources Au- thority, this slime is suspected to originate from a fish farm. "If these reports are confirmed, we have another instance of conflicting industries, that of tourism and aq- uaculture," the GTA said in a state- ment. It urged all the competent author- ities to take the necessary meas- ures, in order to reinstate the pop- ular beach of Hondoq ir- Rummien, freely accessible and available to all, without posing any danger or incon- veniences to visitors and bathers. Moreover, it insisted that all ac- tions be taken to safe guard the blue flagged beach status of Hondoq ir-Rummien, especially at the peak of the summer season. The GTA advocates prompt and effective interventions in order to protect the few, small Gozitan beaches, that form part of the tour- istic offer of the island. Qala mayor Paul Buttigieg said that the slime had soaked into the sand in the bay. He called on ERA to immediately instruct MGP to temporarily re- locate the sand to one side so that people can enjoy the beach again. "The sand can be returned to its place during the winter months," he said. Pressure on Environment and Resources Authority after 'fish farm' slime ruins Hondoq sand Qala mayor Paul Buttigieg said the slime has soaked into the sand in Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay (Photo: Facebook/Paul Buttigieg) Paul Buttigieg