Contribution to the alien flora of the Maltese Islands : New records, observations on invasive species and taxonomic updates

Abstract

The principal factors which promote the proliferation of alien plant species on the Maltese Islands are, amongst others, increased and uncontrolled importation of plants, high population densities and climate change which is leading to an ever dryer and warmer climate. However, the lack of awareness by the public about alien species and their management is perhaps the most unaddressed factor. The replacement of native species by alien ones is a serious problem in Malta especially in habitats like wetlands, sand dunes and garigue habitats close to agricultural areas where anthropogenic pressures are high.