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# ENDEMIC
# ENDEMIC
# INDIGENOUS
# INDIGENOUS
# ARCHAEOPHYTES
# ARCHAEOPHYTES
Local Flora of Malta
Local Flora of Malta
The Maltese archipelago is home to approximately 1000 species of local flora, including around 60 species of trees. These can all be loosely termed as local species which means species that are native to Malta and adapted to the local environment.These plants can be further categorized into three distinct groups:
The Maltese archipelago is home to approximately 1000 species of local flora, including around 60 species of trees. These can all be loosely termed as local species which means species that are native to Malta and adapted to the local environment.These plants can be further categorized into three distinct groups:
# Endemic
# Endemic
# Indigenous
# Indigenous
# Archaeophytic
# Archaeophytic
# ENDEMIC - Species that are found exclusively in the Maltese archipelago, making them critical to the island’s unique biodiversity.
Examples:
Helichrysum melitense (Maltese Everlasting)
Anacamptis urvilleana (Maltese Pyramidal Orchid)
# INDIGENOUS - Flora that has naturally developed and existed in Malta for many years, though it may also be found in other regions worldwide.
Examples:
Cistus Creticus (Hoary Rockrose)
Quercus ilex (Holm Oak)
# ARCHAEOPHYTIC - Non-native plant species that were introduced to Malta over 500 years ago but are now integral to the local ecosystem. These were brought to the islands before 1492, prior to the Columbian Exchange.
Examples:
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) probably introduced to the islands a long time ago, likely due to its culinary and medicinal uses.
Ceratonia siliqua (Carob tree) believed to have been introduced to Malta by the Phoenicians due to its hardy nature and the usefulness of its pods for both food and animal feed .
# Conservation and Promotion
# Conservation and Promotion
Promoting and conserving Malta's local flora is vital due to their genetic distinctiveness from European counterparts. Key efforts include:
Utilization: Encouraging the use of local seeds and cuttings in rural, countryside, and urban areas.
Protection of Rare Species: Prioritizing the conservation of rare species that have very limited populations.
By celebrating and utilizing these local plants, we can enhance Malta's biodiversity and cultural heritage while fostering a deeper connection to the natural environment.
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