A small fish of brackish coastal pools, once widespread and now found at only a few sites.
The Mediterranean Killifish (Il-Bużaqq) is a small fish found in brackish pools and salt marshes around the Maltese coast. Once widespread, it now survives in only a few protected sites.
Description
The Bużaqq is a small fish (5–7 cm) that tolerates high salinity. Males display striking silver-blue bars during the breeding season (May to August). Females are more drab, with spots and bars.
Habitat
The fish lives in coastal lagoons, salt pans, brackish pools and salt marshes such as Il-Magħluq in Marsaskala and Salina in Mellieħa. It has adapted to survive in conditions where freshwater and seawater mix.
Conservation story
Populations collapsed in the 20th century due to wetland destruction. Captive-breeding programmes run by Nature Trust Malta and ERA have reintroduced fish to restored pools, with encouraging results at Il-Magħluq and other sites.
Threats and recovery
The Bużaqq faces loss of coastal wetlands to development, pollution from agriculture, and competition from introduced non-native fish species. Wetland restoration and captive breeding offer hope for recovery.
How to help
Never release aquarium fish into the wild. Support wetland conservation projects. Report pollution at coastal pools.
Threats
Loss and degradation of coastal wetlands and salt marshes; pollution; introduced non-native fish species; changes in salinity and water quality.
How to help
Do not release aquarium fish into pools or marshes. Support Nature Trust Malta and ERA wetland restoration work. Report pollution at wetlands to authorities. Never fish or collect from protected pools.
Photo: Mattia Nocciola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
