Monkfish - Malta

As an official language of the European Union, Maltese, is the only Semitic language in the European Union. It is also the only Semitic language written in the Latin script. Maltese is derived from Siculo-Arabic, a language spoken on Sicily and Malta during the 9th century. The language has evolved into modern Maltese.

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Squatina squatine - The monkfish, a member of the shark family, is an ambush predator. The flattened body and camouflage coloration allows it to lie partially buried along the sea bottom watching for a prey animal to venture close. The historical range of the monkfish had been along the coastal waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and the Northeastern Atlantic Ocean, but its range has been drastically reduced. Over-fishing and low reproductive rates have contributed to a sharp decline; females produce one litter every two years.

Holm Oak - Malta

Quercus ilex - The holm oak, also known as the evergreen oak, grows to heights of 20 to 27 meters. Older leaves are dropped every 1 to 2 years, but only after new ones have emerged. It is one of three oak trees associated with truffles. The roots of the oak form an ectomycorrhiza relationship with truffles, similar to the symbiotic relationships formed between plants and animals. Holm oaks are known for their longevity; some Maltese trees are estimated to being over 1,000 years old.

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Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea has made it a coveted piece of property for several imperial powers. The Phoenicians, Romans, Normans, Sicilians, French, and the British fought for control. The British gained control of Malta through the 1814 Treaty of Paris. Malta was granted independence from Great Britain in September of 1964. The country is a seven island archipelago closer to Africa than Europe. Malta is a member of the European Union, having joined in 2004.