|
I refer to the editorial comment which was added as a footnote to my letter published in the last edition of MaltaToday.
It is true to say that there is some extremely significant scientific data on Ta’ Cenc which demonstrates the area’s vital importance as a habitat for our dwindling communities of rare plants and animals. However, I will reiterate my claim that a detailed and comprehensive bio-diversity study does not exist for this area of Gozo. George Pullicino has used this absence of a detailed study as a means of defeating those who are calling for complete protection of the area under the European Natura 2000 programme.
It should be understood that the current evidence of the importance of Ta Cenc is not based on a comprehensive bio-diversity study. For example, the Environmental Impact Assessment commissioned by the prospective developer is based on walk-through surveys which targets specific communities of plant and animals and is not intended to observe or record rare or endangered species. A considerable amount of floral and faunal species are not recorded in such a survey.
A full-blown scientific survey would involve rigorous assessments of the site, on a night and day basis, conducted weekly at least, over a minimum period of one year (to cover all seasons).
From the fragmented and limited studies we do have, we can say that Ta’ Cenc is clearly a unique area of global importance and should not be touched, despite George Pullicino’s depressing remarks about potential development in the area (including the lunatic golf idea).
As an example of the incredible richness of the area, a particular species of fern, thought to be extinct, was re-discovered last October at Ta’ Cenc by a local botanist. This species, Asplenium trichomanes, had not been seen for 80 years. We also know that Ta’ Cenc is home to the Maltese Rock-Centaury (our national plant) and the Maltese Cliff Orache. These two plants are found in no other country on earth. Ta’ Cenc is a vital local stronghold for these two plant species.
I have also recently seen a scientific paper (as yet un-published) suggesting that Ta’ Cenc is the most important local habitat for another rare local plant, the Maltese Waterwort. The list goes on and on, although the data is fragmented.
Mark Grima
St Julians
|
