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This page lists the publications written by Stephen Mifsud (author of MaltaWildPlants.com) related with his botanical research on the Maltese Islands. Many of his publications are published in peer-reviewed scientific journals but certain research is suitable to be published online on this dedicated page, hence serving as a communication to the scientific community, students and general public.
These online scientific communications are digital publications which allows large number of images, tables, video and other forms of digital data. It helps readers to determine and gauge the validity of these online articles much better. The advantages of online publishing are: fast to publish, reaching a much broader spectrum of e-readers, indexed in search engines like Google and Yahoo, easy to access through internet, free of charge, easy to update and finally, users can easily send their feedback and criticism to the author.
This page is divided into two main categories: 1) printed (bibliographical) papers published in scientific journals and 2) the online articles that are supplied through links in this page. These can also be referenced in one's work and papers. The former are not available online due to copyright restrictions, but can purchased from the corresponding journal. Hope that this page will meet its goal of communicating important new scientific data which can be of use by the scientist, student and general public.
| Page last modified on: 24 Apr 2015 (v: 2.3) |
| TABLE OF ARTICLE TITLES |
| Online Articles of Scientific Value |
| Link |
Title / Authors / Date |
Link |
Title / Authors / Date |
| W01 |
A FLORISTIC SURVEY ON THE GOZITAN ISLETS OF TAC-CAWL AND TAL-HALFA IN THE MALTESE ISLANDS
Stephen Mifsud (2011)
| - | - |
|
| Printed Scientific Papers |
| Link |
Title / Authors / Date |
Link |
Title / Authors / Date |
| P01 |
Two hybrid orchids described from Malta: Ophrys x tumentia
nothosubsp. tumentia and Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. sancti-martinii
Stephen Mifsud (Dec 2014)
| P02 |
Promotion of the Maltese Ophrys bombyliflora forma parviflora to
a variety
Stephen Mifsud (Dec 2014)
|
| P03 |
Chromosome number of Elatine gussonei (Sommier) Brullo (Elatinaceae) and its distribution on the Maltese Islands
Anna Kalinka, Stephen Mifsud, Agnieska Popiela, Magdalena Achremi (2014)
| P04 |
A study of the genus Persicaria Miller (Polygonaceae) in the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud (2014)
|
| P05 |
Bromus cathatrticus Vahl (Fam. Poaceae), A new record for the Maltese Islands
Timothy J. Tabone, Alex Casha & Stephen Mifsud (2014)
| P06 |
Marasmius corbariensis (Roum.) Singer (Family Marasmiaceae Roze Ex Kuhner 1980) – A new fungal species for Malta
Stephen Mifsud (2014)
|
| P07 |
Recent records of spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) from Malta
David Dandria, Alfred Gatt Floridia & Stephen Mifsud (2014)
| P08 |
Polypodium vulgare L. subsp. melitense new subspecies from Gozo, Maltese Islands (Pteridophyta: Polypodiaceae Bercht. & J. Presl.)
Adalberto Peroni, Gabriele Peroni & Stephen Mifsud (2013)
|
| P9 |
Preliminary observations from long-term studies of Gladiolus l. (Iridaceae) for the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud and Anthony P. Hamilton (Aug 2013)
| P10 |
Althenia orientalis (Tzvelev) Garcia-Mur. & Talavera (Zanichelliaceae Dum.): An addition to the Maltese Flora (Central Mediterranean)
Alex Casha & Stephen Mifsud (Aug 2013)
|
| P11 |
Distribution of some rare or endemic chasmophytic and rupestral species growing along the coastal cliffs of the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud (Aug 2013)
| P12 |
Recent observations on the Ophrys of Malta and Gozo: addendum
Stephen Mifsud & Leslie Lewis (May 2013)
|
| P13 |
Fumana laevis (Cav.) Pau (Cistaceae): New to the flora of Malta and considerations on Fumana (Dunal) Spach from the Maltese Flora
Stephen Mifsud (May 2012)
| P14 |
Recent observations on Ophrys species and hybrids of the Maltese archipelago
Stephen Mifsud & Leslie Lewis (Nov 2011)
|
| P15 |
New records of the genus Pachygrapsus (Crustacea: Decapoda) from the Central Mediterranean sea with a review of its Mediterranean zoogeography
Fabio Crocetta, S. Mifsud, P. Paolini, J. Piscopo & P. J. Schembri (2011)
| P16 |
A new record of Serapias bergonii [Fam. Orchidaceae] from the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud (2010)
|
| P17 |
Two new alien grasses from sand gunes Of Ghadira bay in Malta
Stephen Mifsud & Alex Casha (2010)
| P18 |
First occurences of Lemna minuta [Fam. Lemnaceae] in the Maltese islands
Stephen Mifsud (2010)
|
| P19 |
Records of Narcissus elegans [Fam. Amaryillidaceae] and notes on the wild Narcissus in the Maltese islands
Stephen Mifsud & Emanuel Caruana (2010)
| P20 |
A new form of Ophrys bombyliflora link described from Malta
Stephen Mifsud (2009)
|
| P21 |
Rediscovery and present distribution of Valantia hispida L. (Fam. Rubiaceae) in the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud (2009)
| P22 |
Update of the Maltese Flora (Central Mediterranean) including very rare species or species thought to be extinct from mainland Malta or its islands
Stephen Mifsud (2009)
|
| P23 |
Zannichellia major Boenn. ex Rchb. - a first record of a non-endemic species of Zannichellia l. (Fam. Zannichelliaceae Dum.) from the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud (2009)
| P24 |
Four new records for the flora of the Maltese Islands - Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) P.Beauv. (Fam. Poaceae), Amaranthus muricatus (Gillies Ex Moq.) Hieron. (Fam. Amaranthaceae), Fumaria reuteri Boiss.(Fam. Fumariaceae) and Spirodela oligorrhiza(Kurtz) Hegelm. (Fam. Lemnaceae)
Stephen Mifsud (2008)
|
| P25 |
An assessment on the distribution of Iris pseudopumila Tineo [Fam. Iridaceae] in the Maltese Islands and comparison of its two flower forms
Stephen Mifsud (2008)
| P26 |
Three new species from the genus Ophrys, section Pseudophrys [Fam: Orchidaceae] on the Maltese Islands
Stephen Mifsud (2008)
|
| P27 |
Updates in the Flora of the Maltese Islands (Central Mediterranean)
Stephen Mifsud (2007)
| - | - |
|
Printed Scientific Papers
| Paper 01 |
Updates in the Flora of the Maltese Islands (Central Mediterranean) |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2007)  |
 |
| Abstract |
Discovery of new populations in Malta of the very rare Ornithogalum divergens, Asparagus stipularis, Muscari commutatum, Muscari neglectum, Vicia bithynica, Cardaria draba and Abutilion theophrasti, rediscovery of Trifolium pratense (last report of this species 80 years ago) and a new species from Malta - Calendula bicolor |
| Keywords |
Muscari commutatum / Muscari neglectum / Calendula bicolor / Linaria pseudolaxiflora / Asparagus stipularis / Ornithogalum divergens / Vicia bithynica / Cardaria draba / Abutilion theophrasti / Trifolium pratense / rediscovery / rare species / Malta / Gozo / flora |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2007): Updates in the Flora of the Maltese Islands (Central Mediterranean). The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 4(3): 171-179. Nature Trust, Malta. |
| Paper 02 |
Three new species from the genus Ophrys, section Pseudophrys [Fam: Orchidaceae] on the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2008) |
 |
| Abstract |
This article deals with the first substantiated records from the Maltese islands of Ophrys lupercalis J. Devillers-Terschuren & P. Devillers and Ophrys lojaconoi P. Delforge, both forming part of the Ophrys fusca group, and of Ophrys phryganae J. Devillers-Terschuren & P. Devillers, belonging to the Ophrys lutea group. Identification is based on isometric morphological analysis,
following the Delforge taxonomical system. Treatment of these taxa according to another taxonomical system by Baumann,
Kunkele and Lorenz is also discussed. |
| Keywords |
Ophrys lojaconoi / Ophrys lupercalis / Ophrys phryganae / Ophrys fusca group / Ophrys lutea group / Ophrys / Orchidaceaea / Malta |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2008): Three new species from the genus Ophrys, section Pseudophrys [Fam: Orchidaceae] on the Maltese Islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 4(4): 243-252. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 03 |
An assessment on the distribution of Iris pseudopumila Tineo [Fam. Iridaceae] in the Maltese Islands and comparison of its two flower forms |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2008) |
 |
| Abstract |
The distribution of Iris pseudopumila Tineo in the Maltese islands is given, including information on four new
populations. A comparison study between three populations of the yellow-flower form, and between the violet and
yellow forms are provided, the latter showing marked morphological differences between the two colour forms in the
Maltese islands. |
| Keywords |
Iris pseudopumila / Iridaceae / distribution / colour forms / Malta. |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2008): An assessment on the distribution of Iris pseudopumila Tineo [Fam. Iridaceae] in the Maltese Islands and comparison of its two flower forms. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 4(4): 253-262. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 04 |
Four new records for the flora of the Maltese Islands - Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) P.Beauv. (Fam. Poaceae), Amaranthus muricatus (Gillies Ex Moq.) Hieron. (Fam. Amaranthaceae), Fumaria reuteri Boiss.(Fam. Fumariaceae) and Spirodela oligorrhiza(Kurtz) Hegelm. (Fam. Lemnaceae) |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2008) |
 |
| Abstract |
Four plant species are reported as new to the flora of the Maltese islands: Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) P.Beauv. (Family Poaceae), Amaranthus muricatus (Gillies ex Moq.) Hieron. (Family Amaranthaceae), Fumaria reuteri Boiss. (Family Fumariaceae) and Spirodela oligorrhiza (Kurtz) Hegelm. (Family Lemnaceae). The article gives worldwide distribution, plant characteristics and information on the location and habitat that they were found in. The article is complemented by several illustrations |
| Keywords |
Dactyloctenium aegyptium / Amaranthus muricatus / Fumaria reuteri / Spirodela oligorrhiza / new records / Malta / flora |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2008): Four new records for the flora of the Maltese Islands - Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) P.Beauv. (Fam. Poaceae), Amaranthus muricatus (Gillies Ex Moq.) Hieron. (Fam. Amaranthaceae), Fumaria reuteri Boiss.(Fam. Fumariaceae) and Spirodela oligorrhiza(Kurtz) Hegelm. (Fam. Lemnaceae). The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 4(4): 263-273. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 05 |
Zannichellia major Boenn. ex Rchb. - a first record of a non-endemic species of Zannichellia l. (Fam. Zannichelliaceae Dum.) from the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2009) |
 |
| Abstract |
The first record of Zannichellia major Boenn. ex Rchb. is reported from the Maltese islands. Detailed morphological comparison of this population with the endemic and frequent Zannichellia melitensis Brullo, Giusso & Lanfranco and other monoecious Zannichellia species is given. Distribution of this species is discussed. |
| Keywords |
Zannichellia major / Zannichellia palustris / Zannichellia melitensis / Maltese islands, Wetlands / Aquatic flora / Mediterranean region / Malta |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2009): Zannichellia major Boenn. ex Rchb. - a first record of a non-endemic species of Zannichellia l. (Fam. Zannichelliaceae Dum.) from the Maltese Islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(1): 1-6 Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 06 |
Update of the Maltese Flora (Central Mediterranean) including very rare species or species thought to be extinct from mainland Malta or its islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2009) |
 |
| Abstract |
Rediscovery of Lotus halophilus from mainland Malta (presumed to be found only in the island of Comino), Xanthium spinosum (presumed extinct), first record of Myrtus commuis from the island of Gozo and the very rare plant Asplenium trcihomanes are reported from the Maltese Islands. An account about the each population and an updated distribution of the species in Malta is given. |
| Keywords |
Lotus halophilus / Myrtus communis / Xanthium spinosum / Asplenium trichomanes / rare species / extinct / rediscovery / Malta / flora |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2009): Update of the Maltese Flora (Central Mediterranean) including very rare species or species thought to be extinct from mainland Malta or its islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(1): 7-16 Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 07 |
Rediscovery and present distribution of Valantia hispida L. (Fam. Rubiaceae) in the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2009) |
 |
| Abstract |
Valantia hispida L. is an indigenous species presumed extinct from the Maltese islands due to lack of any substantiated records for more than 130 years. The rediscovery of this species is reported. An account of the population found in the South East area of the island of Gozo is given. Morphological differences between V. hispida L. and the frequent V. muralis L. are illustrated. The taxon V. muralis var. hirsuta reported from Malta in old literature is discussed. |
| Keywords |
Valantia hispida / extinct / rediscovery / Mediterranean, Malta / Gozo / flora |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2009): Rediscovery and present distribution of Valantia hispida L. (Fam. Rubiaceae) in the Maltese Islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(1): 17-23. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 08 |
A new form of Ophrys bombyliflora link described from Malta |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2009) |
 |
| Abstract |
A new form, Ophrys bombyliflora Link forma parviflora S. Mifsud is described for plants with significantly smaller lips from the typical form of O. bombyliflora and with a bright, contrasting speculum. These plants were observed as homogenous populations in 2 different sites in Malta, isolated from populations of the locally common Ophrys bombyliflora Link. |
| Keywords |
Orchidaceae / Ophrys bombyliflora forma parviflora / Ophrys / taxonomy / Malta / new taxon |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2009): A new form of Ophrys bombyliflora link described from Malta. Journal of European Orchids, 41(3/4): 611-622, December 2009, Germany |
| Paper 9 |
Records of Narcissus elegans [Fam. Amaryillidaceae] and notes on the wild Narcissus in the Maltese islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud & Emanuel Caruana (2010) |
 |
| Abstract |
Substantiated records of Narcissus elegans are reported from Malta and for the first time in Gozo. Habitat and ecological analysis of the three different populations and a distribution map is given. Morphological characters between the populations are compared between each other and the described taxa. Also discussed and illustrated are the intermediate range of specimens found in Malta between N. serotinus, N. elegans and N. tazetta |
| Keywords |
Narcissus elegans / Narcissus serotinus / Narcissus tazetta / new records / Narcissus intermediates / Malta / Gozo |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. & Caruana, E. (2010): Records of Narcissus elegans [Fam. Amaryillidaceae] and notes on the wild Narcissus in the Maltese islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(2): 19-29. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 10 |
First occurences of Lemna minuta [Fam. Lemnaceae] in the Maltese islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2010) |
 |
| Abstract |
The existence of Lemna minuta Kunth is confirmed from two sites in mainland Malta and one in the island of Gozo
and reported for the first time in the Maltese islands. Notes on its historical and current distribution in Europe, its invasive properties and its habitat preferences in Malta are given. Also included are the distinguishing morphological features from the closely related Lemna minor L., another frequent alien species of ponds and valleys in the Maltese islands. |
| Keywords |
Lemna minuta / valleys / watercourses / alien species / invasive species / flora of Malta |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2010): First occurences of Lemna minuta [Fam. Lemnaceae] in the Maltese islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(2): 1-4. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 11 |
Two new alien grasses from sand gunes Of Ghadira bay in Malta |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud & Alex Casha (2010) |
 |
| Abstract |
Cenchrus echinatus L., a new species for the Maltese Islands, and Dactyloctenium aegyptium, only recorded from the island of Gozo, has been found at the remnant sand dunes of l-G?adira bay, a popular sandy bay located in Mellieha situated in the North of mainland Malta. Their invasive reputation and their presumed introduction routes to our islands are discussed. |
| Keywords |
Cenchrus echinatus / Dactyloctenium aegyptium / sand dunes / coasts / alien species / invasive species / flora of Malta |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. & Casha, A. (2010): Two new alien grasses from sand gunes Of Ghadira bay in Malta. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(2): 6-9. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 12 |
A new record of Serapias bergonii [Fam. Orchidaceae] from the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2010) |
 |
| Abstract |
Serapias bergonii E.G.Camus is a very rare species for the Maltese islands and was assumed extinct from the island of Gozo due to lack of substantiated records. This paper gives details about a new record from Xlendi, a locality on the West coast of the island of Gozo. |
| Keywords |
Serapias bergonii / Serapias vomeracea subsp. laxiflora / Orchidaceae / Mediterranean region / Malta / Gozo |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2010): A new record of Serapias bergonii [Fam. Orchidaceae] from the Maltese Islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, 5(2): 11-17. Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 13 |
New records of the genus Pachygrapsus (Crustacea: Decapoda) from the Central Mediterranean sea with a review of its Mediterranean zoogeography |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Fabio Crocetta, S. Mifsud, P. Paolini, J. Piscopo & P. J. Schembri (2011) |
 |
| Abstract |
The occurrence of Pachygrapsus maurus and Pachygrapsus transversus is reported from the Maltese
Islands for the first time on the basis of one specimen of P. maurus collected in 1990 and numerous
recent specimens, and the distribution of the two species is mapped. The controversial presence
of P. maurus in Italy is confirmed and two new sites for this species are reported, including the first
for the mainland of Italy. The examination of the historical specimen of P. maurus from the Genova
area revealed a misidentification of P. transversus; this record could be a result of ship-mediated
transport. First notes on the habitat of P. maurus in the central Mediterranean Sea are given. Updated
maps of the distribution of P. maurus and P. transversus in the Mediterranean are provided and
the zoogeography of these species is revisited. |
| Keywords |
Pachygrapsus marmoratus / Pachygrapsus maurus / Pachygrapsus transversus / Zoogeography / Mediterranean Sea. |
| Citation |
F. Crocetta, S. Mifsud, P. Paolini, J. Piscopo and P. J. Schembri (2011): New records of the genus Pachygrapsus (Crustacea: Decapoda) from the Central Mediterranean sea with a review of its Mediterranean zoogeography. Mediterranean Marine Science, Medit. Mar. Sci., 12/1, 2011 |
| Paper 14 |
Recent observations on Ophrys species and hybrids of the Maltese archipelago |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud & Leslie Lewis (Nov 2011) |
 |
| Abstract |
Mifsud, S. & L. Lewis (2011): Recent Observations on Ophrys species and
hybrids of the Maltese Archipelago.- J. Eur. Orch. 43 (3): 609-650.
Detailed field studies carried out between late December 2007 and early April
2011 show that the Ophrys iricolor s.l. group on Malta comprises two
morphologically distinct forms which flower at different times in two main
waves, although some intermediates also occur. The first form flowers from
early December to late January and has a medium sized labellum with an
underlip which is entirely green or is stained pale red without a clear–cut
yellowish–green border. The second form flowers from late February to early
April and has a longer labellum with an underlip which is normally stained red
with a clear–cut yellowish–green border. It is concluded that the first form is
attributable to O. mesaritica, consistent with the existing records of this species
on the Maltese archipelago, whereas the second form is attributable to
O. vallesiana. It is also concluded that some intermediate plants, especially
those flowering in mid–February between the two main flowering waves, are
probably O. mesaritica introgressed/hybridised with O. vallesiana (that is
O. mesaritica × O. vallesiana).
Field studies of Ophrys caesiella at various locations on Malta show that this
species is more variable than was originally described by DELFORGE (2000)
and support opinions that O. caesiella and O. gazella are the same species. In
addition, an Ophrys similar to O. caesiella but possessing prominent basal
ridges and a geniculated labellum, initially identified as O. bilunulata ×
O. mesaritica by DELFORGE (1993) and subsequently incorrectly re–identified
as O. pectus (DEVILLERS & DEVILLERS–TERSCHUREN 2000a), has been refound
at its original location as well as elsewhere. It is concluded that it is the
result of hybridization and/or introgression of O. caesiella with/by
O. vallesiana (that is O. caesiella × O. vallesiana). However, the possibility
cannot be excluded that the O. iricolor s.l. parent of some plants is instead
O. mesaritica, or that some plants are complex hybrids of O. caesiella,
O. vallesiana and O. mesaritica.
Details of four Ophrys taxa (namely O. lojaconoi, O. lupercalis, O. phryganae
and O. bombyliflora forma parviflora) recorded on the Maltese archipelago
since the publication of a comprehensive list of Maltese orchids by BARTOLO et
al. (2001) are also given, as well as new locations for some of the rarer
previously listed species. |
| Keywords |
Orchidaceae; Ophrys caesiella, Ophrys gazella, Ophrys mesaritica, Ophrys
pectus, Ophrys vallesiana, Ophrys caesiella × Ophrys vallesiana, Ophrys
mesaritica × Ophrys vallesiana. Malta, Gozo. |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. & Lewis, L. (Nov 2011): Recent observations on Ophrys species and hybrids of the Maltese archipelago. Journal Europäischer Orchideen, 43 (3): 609-650. Germany. |
| Paper 15 |
Fumana laevis (Cav.) Pau (Cistaceae): New to the flora of Malta and considerations on Fumana (Dunal) Spach from the Maltese Flora |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (May 2012) |
 |
| Abstract |
Fumana laevis (Cav.) Pau (Cistaceae): nuova per la Flora di Malta, e considerazioni su Fumana (Dunal) Spach per la Flora di
Malta — Fumana laevis (Cav.) Pau è riconosciuta per la Flora di Malta. Vengono fornite informazioni sulla tassonomia di
F. laevis in relazione alle altre tre specie del genere presenti nella fl ora di Malta. Viene inoltre discussa la sua distribuzione
locale e generale, la sua ecologia e condizione attuale. |
| Keywords |
Cistaceae, Fumana, Fumana laevis, Flora, Maltese Islands |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (May 2012): Fumana laevis (Cav.) Pau (Cistaceae): New to the flora of Malta and considerations on Fumana (Dunal) Spach from the Maltese Flora. Webbia, 67(1): 101-107. 2012 |
| Paper 16 |
Recent observations on the Ophrys of Malta and Gozo: addendum |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud & Leslie Lewis (May 2013) |
 |
| Abstract |
As previously reported by the present authors (MIFSUD & LEWIS 2011), field studies at various locations on Malta indicate that Ophrys caesiella and O. gazella, and O. africana are the same species. The name O. caesiella is now chosen for this combined species. LOWE (2011) similarly concluded that O. caesiella, O. gazella and O. africana were synonyms but also further concluded that O. subfusca (Rchb. f.) Hausskn. is an earlier synonym for these taxa. However, in the opinion of the present authors, the assumptions on which Lowe's further conclusion is based cannot be validated and (if legitimate) O. subfusca should therefore continue to be considered a member of the O. lutea complex. New sites for O. caesiella on Malta and Gozo are also reported. DELFORGE (2012) concluded that the early-flowering form of O. iricolor s.l. on Malta was morphologically different from O. mesaritica on Crete and described it under the new name O. hospitalis. This is now renamed Ophrys iricolor subsp. hospitalis. Reference is also made to the legal protection of wild orchids on Malta. |
| Keywords |
Orchidaceae, Ophrys africana, Ophrys caesiella, Ophrys gazella, Ophrys hospitalis, Ophrys iricolor subsp. hospitalis, Ophrys lutea var. subfusca, Ophrys subfusca; legal protection of wild orchids. |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. & Lewis, L. (May 2013): Recent observations on the Ophrys of Malta and Gozo: addendum . Journal Europäischer Orchideen, 45 (1): 105-120, Germany |
| Paper 17 |
Distribution of some rare or endemic chasmophytic and rupestral species growing along the coastal cliffs of the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (Aug 2013) |
 |
| Abstract |
This paper gives a detailed account of the distribution of endemic or rare species that comprise part of the chasmophytic and rupestral vegetative community lining the Maltese coastal cliffs. The species discussed in this paper are the following: Palaeocyanus crassifolius (Bertoloni) Dostál; Cremnophyton lanfrancoi Brullo and Pavone; Helichrysum melitense (Pignatti) Brullo, Lanfranco, Pavone and Ronsisvalle; Linaria pseudolaxiflora Lojacono; Asparagus horridus L. and Allium sphaerocephalon subsp. arvense (Guss.) Arcang. The first four are species found in article 17 of the Maltese habitats and species, listed in the annexes of the Habitats Directive by the European Commission. Asparagus horridus and Allium sphaerocephalon subsp. arvense are recent additions to the flora of Malta, and their distribution is given in this account. Discussion on the distribution and observations on the preferred habitat are given for each species supplemented by recommendations for the red data book. |
| Keywords |
Article 17, coastal cliffs, endemic, Malta, Maltese flora, rupestral species |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (Aug 2013): Distribution of some rare or endemic chasmophytic and rupestral species growing along the coastal cliffs of the Maltese Islands . Webbia: Journal of Plant Taxonomy and Geography, Vol.68:1: pp35-50, US. (DOI: 10.1080/00837792.2013.807451) |
| Paper 18 |
Althenia orientalis (Tzvelev) Garcia-Mur. & Talavera (Zanichelliaceae Dum.): An addition to the Maltese Flora (Central Mediterranean) |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Alex Casha & Stephen Mifsud (Aug 2013) |
 |
| Abstract |
Althenia orientalis (Tzvelev) García-Mur. & Talavera has been recorded from brackish to saline waters at the Ghadira Nature Reserve in Mellieha, Malta, and constitutes a new species for the Maltese flora. Details on the taxonomy of the species and the habitat of the single population are conveyed, while the local morphology and introduction in Malta of this hydrophyte are further discussed |
| Keywords |
Keywords, Zannichelliaceae, Althenia, halophyte, hydrophyte, Mediterranean flora, Malta |
| Citation |
Casha, A. & Mifsud, S. (Aug 2013): Althenia orientalis (Tzvelev) Garcia-Mur. & Talavera (Zanichelliaceae Dum.): An addition to the Maltese Flora (Central Mediterranean) . Webbia: Journal of Plant Taxonomy and Geography, Vol.68:1 pp57-61, US. (DOI: 10.1080/00837792.2013.807452) |
| Paper 19 |
Preliminary observations from long-term studies of Gladiolus l. (Iridaceae) for the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud and Anthony P. Hamilton (Aug 2013) |
 |
| Abstract |
Field studies in 28 random sites in Malta and Gozo were carried out between 2010 and 2012 to investigate Gladiolus species on the Maltese islands. The results obtained were significantly very different from the general picture of Gladiolus spp. reported for several decades for the Maltese islands, which inferred that the populations were mainly of G. italicus, with unsubstantiated records of G. byzantinus (a garden cultivar) and G. dubius (a doubtful and now unrecognized species). The results from these studies clearly show the abundant presence of G. communis, but the rather rare G. italicus, the latter not being observed in more than half the sites that have been surveyed. This paper deals with an historical account of Gladiolus spp. in Malta, an historical account and the origins of G. italicus, a taxonomic distinction between the two species confirmed from Malta and a discussion based on their seeds and origins. |
| Keywords |
Iridaceae,Gladiolus, flora, Maltese Islands |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. & Hamilton, P. (Aug 2013): Preliminary observations from long-term studies of Gladiolus l. (Iridaceae) for the Maltese Islands. Webbia: Journal of Plant Taxonomy and Geography, Vol.68:1 pp51-56, US. (DOI: 10.1080/00837792.2013.779817) |
| Paper 20 |
Polypodium vulgare L. subsp. melitense new subspecies from Gozo, Maltese Islands (Pteridophyta: Polypodiaceae Bercht. & J. Presl.) |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Adalberto Peroni, Gabriele Peroni & Stephen Mifsud (2013) |
 |
| Abstract |
Polypodium vulgare L. subsp. melitense subsp. nov. from the island of Gozo (Malta) is described. Polypodium vulgare s.l. is being recorded
for the first time from Malta. Comparison of the new subspecies with other Polypodium taxa present in continental Europe and the Mediterranean area is outlined. Pteridophyta of the Maltese Islands are finally listed |
| Keywords |
Pteridophyta, Polypodiaceae, Polypodium vulgare new subspecies, Gozo, Malta. |
| Citation |
Peroni, A., Peroni, G. and Mifsud, S. (2013): Polypodium vulgare L. subsp. melitense new subspecies from Gozo, Maltese Islands (Pteridophyta: Polypodiaceae Bercht. & J. Presl.) . Botanica Complutensis, 37: 41-46. 2013. ISSN: 0214-4565 |
| Paper 21 |
Recent records of spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) from Malta |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
David Dandria, Alfred Gatt Floridia & Stephen Mifsud (2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
Two spider species are recorded in Malta, one for the first time (Zora sp. ?spinimana, Fam. Zoridae) and one for the second time (Aphantaulax cincta, Fam. Gnaphosidae). Observational data and other information about the species together with photographs are provided. |
| Keywords |
"Zora spinimana", "Aphantaulax cincta", Malta, Araneae |
| Citation |
Dandria, D., Gatt Floridia, A. & Mifsud, S. (2014): Recent records of spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) from Malta. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, Vol.5, Pts. 3 & 4 (2011-2012), pp:6-8, Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 22 |
Marasmius corbariensis (Roum.) Singer (Family Marasmiaceae Roze Ex Kuhner 1980) – A new fungal species for Malta |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
A population of Marasmius corbariensis (Roum.) Singer was found in an olive grove at Xewkija, Gozo. Being a new agaric for the Maltese islands, details on this population and habitat is given in this communication. |
| Keywords |
Marasmius corbariensis, Agaricales, Marasmiaceae, fungi, Malta, new record |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2014): Marasmius corbariensis (Roum.) Singer (Family Marasmiaceae Roze Ex Kuhner 1980) – A new fungal species for Malta. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, Vol.5, Pts. 3 & 4 (2011-2012), pp:52-53, Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 23 |
Bromus cathatrticus Vahl (Fam. Poaceae), A new record for the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Timothy J. Tabone, Alex Casha & Stephen Mifsud (2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
First records of Bromus catharticus Vahl from Malta are given in this short communication. A short account of the the naturalising potential and sometimes the invasiveness of this species is given. Notes on the local populations are given and routes of possible introduction are discussed. |
| Keywords |
Alien flora, Bromus, Malta, Poaceae, New record |
| Citation |
Tabone, T.J., Casha, A. & Mifsud, S. (2014): Bromus cathatrticus Vahl (Fam. Poaceae), A new record for the Maltese Islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, Vol.5, Pts. 3 & 4 (2011-2012), pp:65-67, Nature Trust, Malta |
| Paper 24 |
A study of the genus Persicaria Miller (Polygonaceae) in the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
A detailed study on the taxonomy, distribution and populations of Persicaria spp. occurring on the Maltese Islands is carried out based on field surveys between 2008 and 2011. Four taxa are recognised in this study: two forms of Persicaria senegalensis, P. lanigera and P. salicifolia, of which only the latter is native. A taxonomical overview of these species and a detailed account of the distribution and size of the populations of each species (including new records) is given. Habitat preference of the species and their significance in Maltese wetland ecosystems are discussed. |
| Keywords |
Persicaria, Polygonum, Taxonomy, Distribution, Wetland flora, Maltese Islands |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2014): A study of the genus Persicaria Miller (Polygonaceae) in the Maltese Islands. The Central Mediterranean Naturalist, Vol.5, Pts. 3 & 4 (2011-2012), pp:26-51, Nature Trust, Malta. |
| Paper 25 |
Chromosome number of Elatine gussonei (Sommier) Brullo (Elatinaceae) and its distribution on the Maltese Islands |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Anna Kalinka, Stephen Mifsud, Agnieska Popiela, Magdalena Achremi (2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
Elatine gussonei (Sommier) Brullo is an endemic species, with a distribution
restricted to the central part of the Mediterranean Basin (Maltese islands, Lampedusa,
southern part of Sicily). This hydrophyte grows in rainwater pools and cavities in karstic
limestone. Although the morphology has been well studied, no karyological study has been
carried out, and hence this work brings the first chromosome data for the Maltese-pelago
endemic E. gussonei.We have found a diploid number of 54 chromosomes in E. gussonei,
which differs from the chromosome number of most of Elatine species (2n = 36). Additionally,
this account gives a recent distribution of the species on the Maltese islands. |
| Keywords |
Elatine gussonei, chromosome number, phytogeography |
| Citation |
Kalinka, S. et al. (2014): Chromosome number of Elatine gussonei (Sommier) Brullo (Elatinaceae) and its distribution on the Maltese Islands. Acta Botanica Croatia, 73 (1), 267-273, Croatia. |
| Paper 26 |
Promotion of the Maltese Ophrys bombyliflora forma parviflora to
a variety |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (Dec 2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
A discovery of a second clump of Ophrys bombyliflora f. parviflora from the Maltese islands was found to be formed of a homogenous population, the same
previously found in 2008. These micro-satellite populations show a degree of genetic barrier with the normal form of O. bombyliflora, despite they are in sympatric associations. In addition, on evaluating its distinguishing characters, and abiding with the current application of infraspecific ranking in plant
taxonomy, this taxon is here combined to a variety level, hence Ophrys bombyliflora var. parviflora. |
| Keywords |
Orchids of Malta, Flora Malta, Ophrys bombyliflora var. parviflora, endemics. |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (Dec 2014): Promotion of the Maltese Ophrys bombyliflora forma parviflora to
a variety. Journal Europaischer Orchideen , 46 (3/4): 2014. 679-685, Germany. |
| Paper 27 |
Two hybrid orchids described from Malta: Ophrys x tumentia
nothosubsp. tumentia and Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. sancti-martinii |
| Author(s) / Yr. of Publ. |
Stephen Mifsud (Dec 2014) |
 |
| Abstract |
Mifsud, S. (2014): Two hybrid orchids described from Malta: Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. tumentia and Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. sanctimartinii.-
J. Eur. Orch. 46 (3/4): 686-700. Two hybrid orchids of Ophrys caesiella with, respectively, the very early
flowering Ophrys iricolor subsp. hospitalis and the later flowering Ophrys iricolor subsp. vallesiana are described from Malta. The descriptions of these two hybrids are supported by respective intermediate characters found flowering in sympatric association with their parent orchids. |
| Keywords |
Orchidaceae; Ophrys caesiella; Ophrys iricolor subsp. hospitalis; Ophrys iricolor subsp. vallesiana; Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. tumentia; Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. sancti-martinii; Malta. |
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (Dec 2014): Two hybrid orchids described from Malta: Ophrys x tumentia
nothosubsp. tumentia and Ophrys x tumentia nothosubsp. sancti-martinii. Journal Europaischer Orchideen, , 46 (3/4): 2014. 686-700, Germany. |
Online Articles of Scientific Value
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| Article 01 |
A FLORISTIC SURVEY ON THE GOZITAN ISLETS OF TAC-CAWL AND TAL-HALFA IN THE MALTESE ISLANDS |
Author
(Yr. of Publ.) |
Stephen Mifsud (2011) |
 |
| Abstract |
A floristic survey was carried out on the islets of tal-Halfa and tac-Cawl, situated at the Southern coast of Gozo, to confirm or not the results of a recently published paper where it was concluded that a number of species from these sites are extinct or doubtful from a preceding work carried out by a group of scientists in year 2000. This paper confirms the occurrence of most of the species found by the latter scientists and additionally reports a significant number of new records of vascular plants of which some are legally protected, listed in the national red data book or considered rare. Taxonomical notes about few ambiguous plants that are found are also discussed. |
| Keywords |
tac-Cawl / tal-Halfa / Islets / Malta / Gozo / Flora |
| History |
Version: 1.0 released on 03-Jun-11 (First release)
Version: 1.1 released on 05-Jun-11 (Minor changes)
Version: 2.0 released on 15-Nov-11 (Revisit at tac-awl rock in Autumn (Nov 2011))
Version: 3.0 released on 5-Dec-11 (Revisit at tal-Halfa rock in Autumn (Dec 2011))
Version: 3.1 released on 30-Aug-13 (Proof-read by Brian Farrugia)
|
| Citation |
Mifsud, S. (2011): A FLORISTIC SURVEY ON THE GOZITAN ISLETS OF TAC-CAWL AND TAL-HALFA IN THE MALTESE ISLANDS.MaltaWildPlants.com Online Publications; Ref: MWPOP-001. Article Update Version: 3.1 released on 30-Aug-13
URL Link: http://www.MaltaWildPlants.com/publ/index.php#W01
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