UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
Institute of Maltese Studies
M.A. in Maltese Studies
January/February 2010 Session of Examinations
IMS5001 – The Maltese Natural Environment
Tuesday, 26th January 2010
Duration: 2 hours
16.45hrs – 18.45hrs
Please answer any TWO questions.
1.
The rocks of the Maltese Islands were once sediments on the Mediterranean
seabed. Describe how these sediments can give indications regarding the
environment in which they were formed.
2.
Give an overview of the main plant communities of the Mediterranean region with
special reference to the Maltese Islands.
3.
The Mediterranean climate is characterised by a ‘hot dry summer and a mild, wet
winter’. Is this statement valid over the whole Mediterranean region? Discuss.
4.
Describe the impact of each of the following on the natural environment of the
Mediterranean region keeping in mind the Maltese situation:
a) Extensive agricultural monocultures;
b) Extensive urbanisation;
c) Grazing by sheep and browsing by cows;
d) Deforestation.
5.
Give an overview of the diversity of the non-marine fauna of the Maltese Islands.
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6.
Give an overview of anthropogenic pressures on the coastline of the Maltese Islands
and, bearing in mind that coastal management is a function of planning, explain:
i) why it is important to involve stakeholders in the decision-making process
and,
ii) why planners and impact/risk assessors should look beyond the confines
of the coastal zone to counter these pressures.
7.
Give an overview of EITHER (a) Mediterranean marine benthic habitats OR
(b) environmental factors that influence marine habitats and biota.
8.
‘Conservation of biodiversity on a small island presents unique challenges’.
Discuss.
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