VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Environment Ministry has announced a two-year extension of the moratorium on the collection of sea urchins, pushing the ban’s expiry to July 7, 2027. First introduced in 2003, the measure has already led to a notable increase in sea urchin populations, the ministry said.
Sea urchins are essential to the health of marine ecosystems, keeping algae in check and serving as a food source for 18 fish species. Their decline not only disrupts marine balance but also increases vulnerability to invasive species.
Scientific monitoring across 10 sites shows population growth in about 60% of surveyed areas. However, the recovery has not been uniform, prompting the need for more time to allow weaker populations to stabilise.
Notably, the greatest increases were seen in young sea urchins measuring 2–4 cm — a sign of slow but steady growth, as the species typically grows just 1–2 cm per year.
Aquatic Resources Malta (ARM) has been collecting and studying purple sea urchins as part of a wider research initiative. In collaboration with Stella Mare of the University of Corsica, they are exploring sustainable breeding, hatching, and restocking techniques.
The ministry reminded the public that collecting, transporting, selling, or distributing wild sea urchins remains illegal. Offenders face fines of €500 to €5,000. Over the past two years, three people were fined €1,900 in total after being caught in Żonqor, Marsascala.
-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
