Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1540705
3 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 26 OCTOBER 2025 NEWS Challenges for Gozo's Natura 2000 sites spread threat across Gozo's Natura 2000 sites, displacing fragile endemic flora. At Ram- la, sand dune ecosystems are challenged by giant grass and common grapevine, requiring active control. In the Xlendi Valley system, riparian areas are overgrown with giant reed, necessitating ongoing removal to restore ecological balance. On cliffs and rocky slopes at Dwejra u tal-Qawra and Ta' Ċenċ, alien species such as Agave, Wattle, and ice plant affect endemic phryganas and other rocky habitats. Conser- vation objectives across all sites focus on removing or con- trolling these invasive species to minimize their impact and allow native flora to regener- ate. Conservation at landmark locations Certain sites demand height- ened attention due to the inter- section of development pres- sures and invasive species with vulnerable habitats. At Dwejra Inland Sea, a hab- itat characterised by low to moderate nutrient waters with high mineral content, alien fish species such as mosquito fish (Gambusia) and domestic waterfowl pose major threats. Measures include removing these species from both the wa- terbody and surrounding areas to restore the habitat. Near Xlendi Tower, the glob- ally rare plant Linaria pseu- dolaxiflora, with only 335 individuals recorded, is high- ly sensitive to human distur- bance. The management plan recommends that any restora- tion or maintenance work on the tower include preventive measures to minimise impact on the species. The Fungus Rock where bird colonies are threatened by rats (Photo: Kurt Sansone/MaltaToday)