Challenges to the conservation of biodiversity on small islands : the case of the Maltese Islands

Abstract

The conservation of biodiversity on small islands is fraught with challenges, most of which do not apply to mainland areas, and which are borne of characteristics unique to islands. These include a disproportionate coastal extent, anomalously high rates of endemicity and species richness, high degrees of genetic distinctiveness exhibited by biota as a result of their physical isolation. This is coupled to a high degree of anthropogenic disturbance facing island biota and to the high economic importance of coastal-based tourism on islands. This combination in turn translates in a pronounced fraction of island biota being considered as endangered and in islands being considered as biodiversity priorities. The Maltese Islands are located in the Mediterranean Basin, which in itself is already considered as a biodiversity hotspot, and present a case study of intense anthropogenic impacts on a rich biodiversity.