Bubbles July August 2014

T HE A T LA M SUBA QUA C LUB E -M A G A Z I N E

JULY / AUGUST 2014 2014 Atlam Committee Members :Nader Bassily President nbassily@vol.net.mt Joseph Azzopardi Secretary guzeppi56@gmail.com Denise Baker Treasurer denise.baker63@ymail.com Nicholas Agius PRO agius.nick@gmail.com Anton Debattista Activity Officer andeb@go.net.mt Reuben Borg Activity Officer reuben.borg@vodafone.com.mt Daniel Fenech Activity Officer 1977deepdiver@gmail.com

IN THIS ISSUE

page

• Note from the Editor -

2

• Artificial Reefs - Dorian Law

3/6

• Isole Eolie - Edward Vella

7/9

• Species Page - Salema- Edward Vella

10

• Dived Overseas - Ustica - Dorian Law

11

• Dive Logs

Fungus Rock- 06/07/14 - Edward Vella

12

Ta Cenc - 13/07/14 - Edward Vella

13

Crocodile Rock - 20/07/14 - Edward Vella

14

Kap San Dimitri - 27/07/14 - Tano Rolé

15

Tac-Cawla- 03/08/14 - Tano Rolé

16

Migra il-Ferha - 10/08/14 - Tano Rolé

17/18

Ras il-Hobz - 17/08/14 - Edward Vella

19

Hekka Point - 31/08/14 - Edward Vella

20

Dive Sites Location Map - Joe Formosa

Photo by Joe Formosa

www.atlam.org info@atlam.org

21

The Editorial This is the deep summer editorial – the time when the Atlam seasonal divers join the hard core divers – well not just the hard core, but also the diving tourist invasion especially when it comes to shore dives. For sure Cirkewwa and Wied iz-Zurrieq are cases in point – someone told me that divers could be seen forming a queue at the Blue Hole in Dwejra, waiting for their turn to giant stride in! Luckily there is a solution to all of this hassle……the weekly Atlam Boat Dive! You will probably find yourself diving in a remote location, not just far away from the crowd, but also in dive sites which may only be reached by boat providing the best diving that Malta (and Gozo) have to offer. So watch out for that weekly e-mail!

Another great feature of being on a boat dive, is that there is this great feeling of being together – a true band of brothers (and sisters) feeling perhaps unique among divers. OK let us not exaggerate, but you know what I mean!

Summer has also kicked off regular barbecues now being held on our super duper clubhouse terrace at Bahar ic-Caghaq. These are great social events, where those attending get to enjoy a lovely barbecued meal in the company of other divers – as well as their families, because this is after all an all family event – and of course sitting on a sea-front terrace with cool Mediterranean breezes wafting in.

On August 7th as part of the series of talks being organised in conjunction with environmental non-governmental organization BICREF (Biological Conservation Research Foundation), Dr Noel Vella Ph.D held a most interesting presentation on Sharks and Rays. The next talk should be about Alien Species in the Mediterranean – these are not species coming from another planet , but from other seas, namely the Red Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and have made the Mediterranean their new home – often at the expense of the locals. So watch out for the announcement, this should be sometime during September.

Also at this point would like to send a quick reminder for members to participate in BICREF’s Marine Biodiversity Monitoring project by completing and returning the dedicated form, which may be also be obtained through any of the following email addresses . Kindly forward any data, photos or feedback to bicref@gmail.com or adrianajvella@gmail.com or adriana. vella@um.edu.mt . For any jellyfish sightings, emails should be sent to : jellywatchmalta@gmail.com .

Keep Diving!

Edward Vella

evella@onvol.net

Photo: Veronica Busuttil

Artificial Reefs

by Dorian Law

‘Do we need artificial reefs?’, if I might ask.

‘A reef is a rock, sandbar or any other feature lying beneath the sea’, Wikipedia. For the diving community, reefs are God created habitats beneath the water, homes and playgrounds to marine creatures where biodiversity is expressed with jubilation in a wide colored palette.

Man has left his mark on reefs, especially during the last 300 years with mineral and resources exploitation, overfishing, pollution and the tourism industry. Divers have also played their role in reef decline especially in areas affected by heavy visitation, or were novice or uninformed divers and snorkelers take a daily toll on coral reefs. It is only recently that man has started to invest in research and technology to help return natural reefs back to their original pristine conditions. One solution was to introduce artificial reefs.

In the past, man-made reefs have been used only to serve man’s scope, like the blocking of the Carthaginian harbor entry in Sicily by the Romans during the First Punic War. Other artificial reefs were constructed by fishermen to augment fishing yields all across the globe.

Malta’s first recorded man-made reef is an underwater wall commissioned by Grand Master of the Order Fra’ Ramon Perellos y Roccaful in 1715 at Ramla l-Hamra in Gozo. Originally built to prevent beach landings of

pirates and enemies, today the wall serves as an offshore reef preventing sand from being carried out to sea, thus protecting the sand dunes of this ecological wonder.

Natural reefs Home to a third of all marine life, coral reefs are amongst the world’s most fragile and endangered ecosystems.

A natural reef is an elevated hard surface on which sedentary or encrusting animals live. Sponges, hydroids, anemones, and bryozoans distribute their offspring into areas suitable for colonization and any new hard surfaces are quickly occupied. Coral or marine growth begins to form, a process that takes many years, thus the importance of preservation. Their number increases the opportunities to catch plankton, while minimizing the smothering (overwhelming or suffocating) effect of settling sediments. They also protect the fragile substrate from the eroding (sand-paper) effect of falling or current carrying debris. Sediment buildup (sand) in patches or vast areas makes way for colonies of seaweed and seagrass, like the posidonia meadows. The reef’s structure and crevices provide shelter to smaller fish, crustaceans and invertebrates from tidal currents and predators, whilst increasing the feeding potential for all inhabitants.

The aim of constructing an artificial reef is to copy, double or extend such a habitat.

Man’s destruction of reefs Human activity has caused the destruction of 150,000 square kilometers (500 times the area of Malta) of coral reefs and more than half the world’s reefs have already been damaged. Unfortunately reefs need time to heal, but action has already started to eliminate or reduce human impact due to abusive activity.

When sewage and fertilizers are dumped close to shore algae growth is encouraged. Algae choke coral polyps, cutting off their supply of light and oxygen. The same happens when trash or other foreign objects, such as building and industrial bi-products are thrown into the sea, covering vast areas due to the currents carrying them in suspension before they settle down, many times over reef colonies. The algae problem is made even worse in

countries where the number of fish that would normally eat the algae has diminished. Ghost nets are lost or discarded fishing nets that continue to catch fish that will never be used as food by humans. Oil leaks and spillages will eventually find their way to the shore or to a reef, poisoning coral polyps and other marine life. Sediment in suspension makes the water cloudy and muddy blocking the light needed by the reef to grow. This sediment comes from farming or mining activities that allow water run-offs carrying soil in streams or construction activities along the coastline, where debris is either abusively dumped or carried away by the wind, ending in the sea.

Unfortunately, soil erosion is not just a problem of land loss. Every cubic meter of lost soil will eventually end up in the sea. The destruction of mangrove trees and seagrasses which act as filters or dams for sediment further aggravate the situation. Mangrove forests are cut for firewood or removed to create artificial prawn farms and beaches.

Fishing with explosives such as potassium nitrate (a common fertilizer) and cyanide have left over-fished and destroyed reefs in many countries in Southeast Asia.

Sodium cyanide is used to stun and catch tropical fish for aquariums and ‘live-fish’ restaurants, poisoning not only the fish but also coral polyps and other reef inhabitants.

Corals are also sold as souvenirs in the region. Worldwide, careless recreation has brought havoc to the reef structure.

Boat anchoring or walking on reefs can have the same damaging effects that careless divers produce when they grab to or kick coral reefs, or when they collect or buy coral or other dead reef creatures such as shells.

When ocean temperatures increase, coral polyps lose the symbiotic algae inside them, causing them to turn white and eventually die. This is an effect of Global Warming, brought about mainly by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases produced by human activities. Sea surface temperatures have increased by about 1°C since the early 20thcentury, with the last three decades being successively warmer than the previous decades. While this small increase in temperature might not cause any effect on the man at the beach drinking Margaritas, it has a devastating effect on reefs brought about by the changes in the climate’s energy storage, our oceans, storing about 90 of the climates energy. Global warming brought about mainly by carbon dioxide emissions produces changes in the global water cycle, reductions in snow and ice and

global mean sea level rise, a serious threat to coral reefs and to small island nations based on coral reef atolls. An increase in tropical storms, extreme and unpredictable weather, could do extensive physical damage to coral reef ecosystems.

Artificial reefs Do we need artificial reefs? This is a question that the great majority of land based people ask. To answer this question, one must first understand the difference between a natural reef and an artificial reef. A natural reef is made up of rock and stone as a base on which living organisms such as corals grow. An artificial reef is just the base material that awaits the living organisms to populate the area, thus forming the living basis for a reef habitat. Artificial reefs are man-made or natural objects or structures, intentionally placed on the seafloor in selected areas of the marine environment, such as sand and mud areas, to improve or create a habitat for a variety of marine life. In countries where coral growth is limited, such as in Malta, an artificial reef would seem to flourish faster and resemble more the local reefs or shores than in countries where coral is a predominant feature of reefs.

This is due mainly to the fact that, in such places where coral is much less found, other marine growths with faster growing rates, would take over the new reef. In such case, one would compare the number of inhabitants between the natural and artificial reefs rather than coral growth. Recently scuttled wrecks in Malta, such as the Um El Faroud (September 1998) and P29 (August 2007), are clear examples of how diverse marine growth such as sea squirts, sponges, hydroids and bryozoans take over different materials such as steel and aluminum.

Advantages and disadvantages The main consideration that has to be taken into account is whether the artificial reef will contribute towards the natural reef or what will it add to barren areas such as vast, featureless, sandy or muddy bottoms. A badly designed artificial reef is the main disadvantage. The type of material used, the correct placing, which part of the bottom will be lost under the new reef, the effect of currents, wave action and tidal flows are items that have to be considered in the preliminary assessment, better

known as an environmental impact assessment. Material type should not be toxic, be negatively buoyant and able to withstand currents. Loose material can drift far away from the chosen site, effecting other areas or activities such as underwater archeology or fishing. If artificial reefs are not carefully planned or constructed, they can actually damage natural habitats. Artificial reefs built too close to natural reefs may cause an increase in visitors to both the artificial and natural reefs. This is a disadvantage, if the intention of building the artificial reef was to alleviate or lessen the impact of visitors to the natural reef. Another issue is the introduction of alien or invasive species such as the Caulerpa Taxifolia, Percnon Gibbesi, Rapane Venosa and Sargocentron Rubrum, all invasive species that have invaded parts of the Mediterranean Sea in the last years.

The negative ecological impacts of artificial reefs have to be given priority, even if they may not outweigh potential economic gains such as increased tourism and better fisheries.

Artificial reefs provide shelter and new homes to fish in areas where there was nothing or where there was overpopulation. They help with the rehabilitation of stressed natural habitats and with the increase in quantity and size of marine life. The new structure attracts marine organisms that might have drifted with the current over barren bottoms if the artificial reef was not there.

Studies have shown that if artificial reefs are developed in conjunction with aquaculture, this would enhance the wild population in the aquaculture system. Artificial reefs divert scuba and fishing activities away from natural reefs, while still producing a diverse marine life. This creates new dive spots and enhances local economies.

First thing to consider is the desired outcome of the artificial reef. Will it be made to sustain the fishing industry, the diving community, to improve the ecological aspect of a certain area or for a variety of reasons. The right shape and size, has to be decided, upon which type of underwater fauna is expected to be found at the site, within a couple of years. High profile reefs, with drop-offs attract pelagic fish such as tuna, barracuda, amberjack and sharks, whereas low profile reefs, with height rarely exceeding 3 meters, attract fish like sea bass and groupers. An ideal artificial reef design should contain a balance between low and high profile. Some countries use floating structures to attract pelagic fish, much like the floating palm lattice (kannizzati) used by Maltese fishermen to catch dolphin fish (dorado – lampuki), but on a much bigger scale.

The chosen site must be well away from navigation channels or areas where boat anchorage is inevitable or frequent. Adequate mooring buoys should be planned for if damage by anchors is to be limited. Known fishing grounds should be avoided to eliminate damage to the reef and fishing equipment. Easy access to the reef should be made available to all users. This could be either directly from shore for inshore reefs or via adequate anchorage for small boats for offshore reefs within the 5mile area from shore. The underwater features to consider for the chosen site should include type of bottom, location of other underwater features and bottom irregularities such as mounds or wrecks, current and wave action, bottom depth and final clearance above the reef.

Construction of an Artificial Reef The planning, paperwork, committee meetings, funding and such other aspects is far beyond the writing of this article and will be left out whenever possible. One must not forget to mention the stakeholders involved; government and fisheries, fishermen, tourism industry, diving community and marine biologists. Comprehensive planning by the stakeholders should include items in descending order of importance starting from an environmental impact assessment and ending with funding.

Reef balls

The depth of the site determines the profile of the reef, especially where clearance for navigation might be a requirement in the area or in cases where shallow reefs are intended to give the coral better access to the light needed for growth. Oceanographers and marine geologists should be consulted regards the wave action and strong currents that would greatly affect the profile of the reef. This will also be a key factor to consider when choosing the material with which to construct the reef. A heavy object will be less likely to move when compared with lightweight material. The final shape of the reef should be considered in a three-dimensional aspect and not just on the area being covered. Apart from the profile height, clumping of material with some open spaces is much desired, while scattered material should be avoided.

Bottom sampling and video equipment, diver inspection and echo sounding are combined with local fishermen’s knowledge and marine geologist’s expertise to determine the ideal type of bottom for the chosen site. Artificial reef material dropped in a poorly chosen site could prove to be ineffective especially on muddy bottoms where the material might sink very deep or on shifting sand and silt areas where the sediment might cover large parts of the artificial material during the actual dropping or due to waves or currents. Hard bedrock is an ideal choice, as are firm and compact gravel or sand areas.

When deciding on the material to use for the artificial reef one must remember that, structures with small holes, crevices and swim throughs that provide shelter are preferred more than blocks of solid material that do not make ideal homes for the underwater fauna. Long life expectancy has to be considered and items subject to rot and corrosion, such as cars, household appliances and wooden structures should not be used. Building rubble and tyres should be considered only if the method employed in the sinking (drop-down) ensures that they are not allowed to get scattered. Big structures like ships, barges, oils rigs and prefabricated concrete forms are ideal material for an artificial reef. In countries where the use of artificial reefs is considered vital for the local fauna and economy, specialized companies construct structures that are used as artificial reefs in selected locations. One such design, the ‘Reef Ball’, is a preformed ball-shaped concrete structure that comes in various sizes and is used in new reef structures, oyster harvesting and also to plant mangrove.

Biorock: an odd development Artificial reefs worldwide Coral growth is slow and it will take long to see the new area flourish. Following experiments from the 70’s, in a research lab for artificial reefs in the bay of Tensing Pen in Jamaica, scientists have worked on a procedure to grow artificial reefs by electrolysis. The reef consisted of varying areas from those affected by high waves and currents to areas on mud and sand. Direct current, nowadays alternative energy powered, is connected via long cables to a metal lattice (kannizzata) construction attached to the artificial reef. This direct current, causes the calciumcarbonate (lime) separated from the sea water, to settle on and laminate the lattice. The outcome, better known as mineral accretion, is the substance formed by electroaccumulation of minerals dissolved in seawater, resulting in a composite of brucite and limestone with mechanical strength similar to concrete. Derived from seawater, this material is similar to the composition of natural coral reefs and tropical sand beaches. The area was inspected and the results found that apart from the growth and recovery of various species of damaged coral and marine life planted by the scientists, new growth carried by currents had settled down and grew at a faster rate than expected.. In 1998 during a warm period in the Maldives, fewer than 5% of the natural reef corals survived, while 80% of corals on Biorock not only survived but flourished.

When applied to steel structures it is proving to be stronger by time due to the mineral attaching itself to the iron (cathodic protection), rather than weaker due to corrosion. Engineering projects are being developed using this technology. This seemingly unlimited effect continues until the current is continuously fed.

Japan is the world leader in artificial reef technology.

Since the 18th century they have used steel, concrete and reinforced fiber to enhance commercial fishing produce, which seems to be the main reason for artificial reefs amongst other Asian countries. Countries like Malaysia and the Philippines that rely on dive tourism are using tyres and old fishing vessels. Australia and America build reefs for recreational and commercial fishing and diving.

Australia uses mainly tyres and old ships while America also uses cars and railways. In Europe, Italy, France and Spain have been building reefs from the 70s. With over 57 reefs built, Spain leads the way amongst the European Union countries. Worldwide it is only Japan and America that have a national development plan for artificial reefs, although other countries are soon to follow.

New York City cabs used to build a reef in Georgia.

Malta.

BioRock . Electric reef.

Since the late 80’s, Malta has occasionally scuttled ships for recreational diving and tourism. Through the Environmental Initiative Partnership Program (EIPP) of 2001, in 2004, an inert-waste reef pilot project by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) consisting of four artificial reefs was launched off Balluta Bay. Two were constructed with globigerina limestone and two with concrete blocks, arranged in a pyramid form. The aim was to assess the environmental impacts, to compare

impact assessment, such as, description of the project, the extent of the existing environment likely to be affected by the project and the identification and assessment of the effects of the project on the existing environment. These are followed by a consultation stage, review of the draft environmental impact statement, certification of the Environmental Impact Assessment, public hearing and submission of the final environmental impact statement to the Authority, before the reef´s construction can take place. A limited environmental impact assessment is quite similar but more limited and aims at appropriately identify, describe and assess, in the light of each individual proposal, the direct and indirect effects produced on the living and non-living components of the environment.

Coral growth on bow-rail of yacht. Egypt. suitability and time of colonization of different substrates by marine flora and fauna, and to evaluate the stability of the reef over time.

Artificial reef deployment in Malta is regulated by the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published in 2007 by the Minister for Rural Affairs and the Environment; describing the overall bureaucratic procedures and environmental studies required for the installation of any man-made structure within the coastal zone. Depending on the artificial reefs´ dimensions, the projects have to be submitted either to a full environmental impact assessment (Environmental Impact Statement) in the case of installations occupying an area of 0.01kmsq or more, or to a limited environmental impact assessment (Environmental Planning Statement) for areas ranging from 1,000 msq to 10,000 m2sq. MEPA is the competent authority responsible for performing the duties set out in these regulations. A number of procedures have to be followed in the preparation of the full environmental

Malta’s first post-war era artificial reef is probably the wreck of the Scott Craig sunk in 1982 while being towed, after serving as breakwater for the building of the jetty at Anchor Bay, where the Popeye film starring Robin Williams was shot. Tug boat Rozi was scuttled ten years later at Cirkewwa for the enjoyment of those using Malta’s only submarine, on an underwater safari. In 1998 the Um El Faroud was scuttled at Wied iz-Zurrieq followed by the Imperial Eagle at Qawra in 1999 and other wrecks.

The same year Gozo saw the scuttling of MV Xlendi at Xatt l-Ahmar, which proved to be unsuccessful over the years due to the wreck positioning itself broadside on a very sloped bottom, causing the wreck to slide and roll.

Another two wrecks in the area the Mv Karwela and Mv Cominoland scuttled in 2006 stand upright in about 40meters depth. The latest ship to be scuttled was the tugboat Tug2 off Exiles, Sliema in 2013. These ships were intentionally sunk to augment diving tourism. Marine growth and fish populations vary greatly between these sites and in a final evaluation one must consider both the environmental effects on the sites, such as currents, and also the performance due to human activity such as diving and fishing. At Saint Julian’s Bay two other forms of reefs can be observed and studied. On the northern side of the bay, huge tyres are partially scattered on a sloping sand bed, adding features to the site, while on the inner part of the bay towards Spinola Bay, rocks form like a garigue wall. In both cases they serve as retaining walls to keep the sand in the bay, while local marine growth can be observed.

Artificial reefs can have both a negative or positive impact on underwater ecosystems. Careful planning and

execution of an artificial reef is more likely to produce a positive outcome that would benefit the environment and anyone whose interest lies in the preservation and proliferation of the underwater fauna.

As a diving community we need to emphasize this to the generally land based mentality of our politicians and decision makers. There is a need to increase drastically the number of artificial reefs and not just wrecks. Many diving areas are still barren and could easily accommodate more reefs. We should also start putting reefs in areas not easily visited, thus, with control, enabling the area to remain relatively free of human contact. Such sites will be better appreciated when the underwater world is observed in its unspoiled beauty.

So next time you visit an artificial reef try to observe and compare it with a natural reef close by. Then you can answer yourself the question posed before, ‘Do we need artificial reefs?’.

Dorian Law

The Rozi, Cirkewwa , Malta

Isole Eolie – Fire, Earth, Sea I had been thinking about visiting the Aeolian Islands for quite a bit, and then as often happens, things start to materialise. I had made my intention known to my good friend Tano, and I was not at all surprised when he said that he would not mind at all spending a couple of days over there as well, and so late July found us seated together with our better halves, on the Air Malta flight heading for Catania.

The prime driver for me to visit the Eolian Islands was Stromboli – the island volcano.

This turned out to be a unique experience – to stand on ancient Stromboli and watch its fiery majesty was really a binding experience – this volcano, the same that has been blasting away plumes of lava much before man cared to write down his history, establishes a relation, which makes you resolve to visit again.

Stromboli is one of seven Eolian sisters – the other islands; Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Alicudi and Filicudi are all the tips of extinct volcanoes, and then of course there is the seventh island, the still active Vulcano, which is a constant smoker - this is the one which gave its name to all the others. To the Romans, this was the abode of Vulcan, the blacksmith of the gods – well, this forge is still in business! Going up to the summit of Vulcano at 600 metres serves as the best practice available to face the much more determined effort needed to get on top of Stromboli’s 924 metres…. heed these words!

Obviously diving was also very much on the agenda! So once established at our hotel on Lipari (which is the Eolian regional centre) we went straight to La Gorgonia Diving Centre. After the customary welcomes, we agreed with owner Pino Vadala to meet on the following day for our first dive which would be chosen according to weather conditions. I brought my mask and regulator from home, the

Article by Edward Vella

rest we rented out from La Gorgonia – the equipment was in good condition, and all at very reasonable prices.

The following day we headed out on the house rib to Punta Castagna, which is Lipari’s North Easternmost point – we got there in about 25 minutes. This is essentially a wall dive which takes place along a reef which roughly continues out on a North East heading. The reef top is at about 8m, but once over the drop off, the sea bed is somewhere down in the blue.

The reef at Punta Castagna is white. Close by there is a pumice quarry – now disused, and the current has deposited the brilliant white pumice sand everywhere on the reef, making it look as if there has been a heavy snowfall. I am sure that this is not beneficial at all to marine life, but it looks very unusual, and provides a sharp background contrast to the brilliant reds, deep purples, yellows and oranges of the most conspicuous coloniser of this reef – the gorgonians!

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Edward Vella

No wonder that Pino called his outfit La Gorgonia – it is evident that conditions on this reef are ideal for the gorgonians the wall population is simply impressive!

On the day, there was little or no current, but gorgonians (red / purple - Paramuricea clavata, yellow - Eunicella cavolinii) feed on suspended particles carried by currents which are then trapped in their extended tentacles. Also the water temperature at the maximum depth of 40 metres was 17 deg.C, while at the surface it was a cosy 26 deg. C. The photographer is literally spoilt for choice – also life was made easier

by Massimo - our capable guide whose knowledge of the reef was put to good use by indicating points of interest – like the overhang, the underside of which was swarming with narval shrimps.

The following day we were hoping that we would dive one of the black lava reefs of neighbouring Vulcano, but due to a logistic hitch, the dive site was changed to La Parete dei Gabbiani. This as its name implies is a wall dive, and is located quite close to Punta Castagna. One would not be blamed if the conclusion was reached that this is an extension of the previously dived reef, since the same powdery pumice has settled on every projection on the reef.

Again, the Gorgonians reign supreme – it seemed to me that the examples here could be larger than those seen in the first dive.

During both dives, we only saw one grouper, and that was quite some distance away – this actually seemed quite reminiscent of our diving at home! And it came as no surprise when we were told that there are no protected zones in the Eolie. Other sea life encountered, was for example, the Penta starfish (Peltaster placenta). This is a small starfish (about 5 cm), which has the form of a pentagon.

The Aeolian Islands in my opinion really live up to their reputation of being the pearls of the Thyrrenian Sea - and being of volcanic origin, they are physically very different from our sedimentary Malta.

The Mediterranean however makes them at the same time, so very familiar. http://www.liparidiving.com/diving_ itineraries_lipari.html

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Edward Vella

Species Page Research & photos by: Edward Vella

Salema

(Xilep)

Photo: Edward Vella

Sarpa salpa also known as Salema, or locally as Xilpa is one of those fish that may be termed as being commonly found around Malta, and in many diverse environments - in both rocky substrates and also in sedimentary types – as long as algaeal growth is present. Typically the individual size is about 30cm, and is normally to be seen in shoals which often may be termed as numerous. These are often encountered

towards the end of the dive – probably during the decompression phase, where the whole group may be seen grazing on the reef top algae - much like cattle would do – Salema is after all a herbivorous species. It belongs to the family of the sea breams.

A shoal of salema makes an excellent opportunity for photography – especially in bright conditions where the sunlight reflects from their yellow

and blue streaked silvery scales. For best effect the background should ideally be the uninterrupted blue.

Having an abundance of an attractively large fish so close to land, in such an

overfished environment, one would be correct to conclude that locally the Xilpa does not enjoy a particularly high market value. Salema spend their lives grazing on algae, and if these happen to be in harbour areas, or in other places where it might be perceived that the water quality is not at its best, then it might be concluded that any pollutants would find themselves into the fish’s organism –affecting also how it tastes. Individuals caught from safer areas would be perfectly comestible, but if you are buying from the fishmonger, you have to take his word for it – and not everyone does…

And now here is a bit that I admit was news for me – and one which if marketed properly could make sales of Salema shoot to the top – tuna growers beware!

There is a claim that Salema was consumed as a recreational drug – you have read correctly – and this was during the days of the Roman Empire!! This claim arises from the assumption that the fish eats a particular algae which then accumulates in it flesh and renders it hallucinogenic. A couple of years ago, there was a report where it was alleged that two men had frightening auditory and visual hallucinogenic effects for 36 hours after eating the fish… Sarpa salpa (strawberry) fields forever

Sept-Oct ­- Sea Grasses - Hxejjwx il-Bahar PLEASE SEND PHOTOS

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“Dived verseas Where"!!!

Article compiled by Dorian Law

Ustica

Tyrrhenian Sea. ITALY

Destination: 52 kilometres North of Capo Gallo, Sicily, lies the small island of Ustica. Just about 9 kilometres across, it is believed to have been inhabited by the Phoenicians since 1500BC. Excavations at Faraglioni have unearthed a large prehistoric village of a human settlement behind strong fortifications. Today, Ustica has less than 1500 inhabitants. Scarce vegetation, rocks and grottoes characterize this once, Fascist prison-island. Relatively deep coastal waters are due to the island’s volcanic geology. The name Ustica comes from the Latin word ‘ustum’, (English – burnt), for its black rocks.

Getting there: Since there are no airports on the island, one must plan to use one of the three airports on Sicily. Palermo airport is the closest to the Palermo port from where the ferry to Ustica departs. Operated by Ustica Lines or Siremar, two-way passenger tickets for the 90minute ferry trip cost €60 and €200 for cars. Lowest air fare to Palermo is with Alitalia at about €200 via Fiumicino airport, Rome. Next option is Ryanair flight at €175 via Trapani. If opting for Catania airport Airmalta flights cost around €130. Catania and Trapani options would require either airport transfer at about €100 per person or van hire at €100 daily.

Malta –Sicily crossing by sea is available and the 50nautical mile, 90minute return trip to Pozzallo port costs €145 per person and €145 for a car.

Facilities: Accommodation is available and the choice depends on personal budget. Hotel Diana Ustica twin room on bed and breakfast basis costs €70 per room per day while an apartment at Ca’serta costs €79 per night. Many of the dive centres are attached to resorts, appartments or hotels. Profondo Blu runs a resort with dive school attached. A self-catering 2bed apartment costs €660 while a 4bed costs €1350 per week. Dive packages start from €43 for a single dive, €350 for 10dives and €520 for 16dives. Passengers on board the dive boat are expected to pay €10 daily or €40 for a 6day usage. For those travelling light, who wish to include diving in their vacation, full equipment rental is €25 per dive. Local currency is the Euro and the major credit cards are accepted everywhere. For technical dives it is best to enquire before travelling. No live-aboard boats operate around the island but dive schools take divers out for day trips using their own boats or converted fishing boats. Non diving activities include tours of the Bourbon Fortress, the Necropolis, the Archaeological Museum and the Prehistoric Walls, trekking, bike or mule outings and exploration of inland caves.

Package cost: A 7 day (week) package with flight, accommodation and 10dives costs around €1300 depending on the choice of arrival airport. About €250 is expected to be spent on food and about

€150 for excursions and leisure like €50 scooter rental or €50 mountain bike rental per week.

Dives: The following are Ustica’s most dived sites. Cape Galera and Shrimp Cave includes a shrimp filled 130meter long cave, with entrance at 42meters and exit at 28meters. Colombara Reef on the north coast is home to many large groupers and the addition of a 75meter long mercantile ship that sank in 2005, now resting 20meters below the surface, makes this area one of the best sites to visit. Scoglio del Medico is a vast site that needs more than one dive to explore, especially the 70meter long tunnel complex at 20meters.

Following the Arianna Rope at Cape Gavazzi, divers explore the world’s first underwater archaeological museum amongst anchors and amphorae. Cape Spalmatore and Cape Falconiera present drop-offs, caves and tunnels down to 50meters. The three pinnacles at Sicchitello come up from 60meters and are always affected by currents which bring a diversity of fish like tuna.

Two cave dive sites are Toto’s Cave where the muddy bottom and shallow headroom demand peak buoyancy and finning, while at Cipree Cave divers can surface and breath inside the cave. At a depth of 25meters, divers can dive along a crack at San Paolo Rift.

Difficulty level: Low – High.

Depth: 15 to 50+ meters.

Visibility: 10 to 30 meters.

Wrecks: Low. Caves: High.

Walls: High.

Snorkelling: Available during the inshore dives.

Marine life diversity: Average for fish and low for corals.

Big fish: Average.

Water temperature: 15 – 25 °C. Best time of the year: May to October, with both months being the least frequented by divers and tourists.

Fungus Rock The planned destination for this boat dive was to be a first time visit to the long and narrow caves in the cliffs to the NW of the Inland Sea exit at Dwejra in the location known as Ta’ Slima. So the batteries of the primary torches were charged in anticipaation – but it was not to be! The ruling NW wind freshened, but the dive boat Atlantis II kept heading stubbornly to the planned destination along Gozo’s western coast beneath the majestic Ta’ Cenc cliffs… in spite of the ever bigger waves breaking on its bow. However once we rounded the headland at Ras il-Wardija,

- Gozo 06.07.14

Article by Edward Vella

the North Westerly was having a ball – there was only one place where shelter along that coast could be found – Dwejra Bay – in the lee of il-Gebla tal-General or as it also known – Fungus Rock.

Fungus rock is so called due to a very rare type of plant, (formerly thought to be a fungus due to its shape) which used to grow on top of this rock, and which was believed to have strong medicinal properties. This was at the time when the Knights of St John ruled Malta – alas this was only a belief. Wonder if the wonder plant still grows there?

This is basically a wall dive. Once out of Dwejra Bay, which can be exited through passages on either side of Fungus Rock, the sea bed drops off immediately, and then slopes off to deeper water.

This time I had to proceed with caution, I had filled up with Nitrox 30 which would have fitted nicely in the intended Ta’ Slima site, but here where there was a very real potential for 50m plus, I had to keep a good watch on my buoyancy to respect my maximum allowed depth of 35.5 metres.

Meanwhile down below other divers came face to face with a couple of large dentex..

This reef is after all an extension of the same reef at Crocodile Rock, and at that site, encounters (normally very brief ) with large dentex and pale groupers is almost assured – so who knows they could be relatives!

The dive took an Easterly heading at first and then back towards the Fungus rock exit (now entrance). Here the diver has to ascend to about seven to eight metres; otherwise he will risk overshooting and keep heading towards Ras il-Wardija beneath the cliffs. To help avoid this, since this was a dive during the morning, sunlight pouring through the passage was a sure indicator, and once past it, the cliffs will cast a deep shadow.

Given the rough conditions, Fungus Rock saved this dive!

Photo: Tano Role

Base photo: Edward Vella

Base photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Tano Role

Ta Cenc -

Gozo 13.07.14

This was the second time that Atlam boat divers paid a visit to Ta’Cenc this year – and it could very well be that it will not be the last before this one is through! Regular readers of Bubbles and local divers will know that Ta’Cenc is one of the sites on Gozo’s South facing coast that is chosen for the shelter it provides whenever the North West wind is blowing hard enough to disturb boat dive proceedings. After all this is supposed to be a relaxing activity, so unless there is a real valid reason, sheltered sites will obviously be preferred.

The previous dive here was held on the 27th April, and logged in Bubbles in the April - May issue. (http://issuu.com/bubbles_ atlam/docs/bubbles_march-april_2014) Furthermore, it can fairly be said that the profile of this dive, as well as the diver entry and collection point details were pretty much similar to that one, I will therefore take the liberty of saving the readers from the tedium of reading very much the same thing. I hope I got this one right – your feedback would be appreciated!

As regards sea life, we noticed a small shoal of adult salema on the reef (counted 24 ) , and then once in the Mgarr ix-Xini creek the inhabitants one would expect to find in an environment consisting of a sandy sea bed were encountered: flounders, red striped mullet, striped sea bream, another even larger shoal of salema – mostly juveniles.

Also where the rocky creek sides meet the sand, a sizeable octopus was seen holed up in a recess peering from behind its ‘wall’.

Article by Edward Vella

Another different environment is offered by the two caverns situated at the mouth of the inlet. Multi coloured sponges colonise the shady rocky sides of the cave as well as orange star coral, needle spined sea urchins and large tube worms . At least one dusky grouper (a juvenile) was seen in the often interconnected recesses in the first cavern’s inner side.

Since in practice most of this dive is spent in the creek’s shallows (12 to 15metres), the dive time tends to be on the long side (60 to 70 minutes). Actually we all agreed that the creek is the most interesting part of the dive – the turquoise water and the interesting sea life surely had something to do with this..

On the way back, we had a birthday celebration – our able dive master Guzi was celebrating an undisclosed birthday – Many Happy Returns! – and so ended another nice boat dive, this time with many divers landing with chocolate cake on their faces!

Photo: Joe Formosa

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GUZI!

Base photos: Joe Formosa & Edward Vel;la

Crocodile Rock The dive at Crocodile Rock’s similarity with the dive log described immediately before it - Ta’ Cenc – is that they are both ‘staple’ boat dives. By staple it is meant that, these sites are frequently dived, and at the end of the year if one looks at the Bubbles back page - at the Atlam Boat Dive Map - one can see that certain sites have a series of dots next to them bearing witness to the repeat visits.

The similarity ends there however. Ta’ Cenc is a nice dive, but it is invariably chosen because the choice of decent dive sites is restricted by the whims of the prevailing North Westerly, whereas when the Crocodile is available, so are many other juicy sites. The choice frequently falls on this one because it is one of the most popular and well attended boat dives.

Popular because it falls in the multipurpose category. The reef line runs from Dwejra to Fungus Rock (see first dive log in this issue), and placed on its edge is the rock that gives the name – Crocodile Rock.

The dive boat drops anchor right behind it, discharges the divers, and once beyond the Croc, it is the drop- off …. which goes down to the first platform at about 42 metres. Technical divers will cross the platform and descend - the limiting depth here is their dive plan – the sea bed keeps going…

Very often, the platform at 42 metres is the place where sighting of significantly sized groupers – for some reason mottled groupers Mycteroperca rubra (Maltese: Cawlun) are more frequent than the more common dusky grouper – and dentex Dentex dentex (Maltese: Denci). This dive was no exception!

- Gozo 20.07.14

Ascending up to about 25metres and following the reef heading NW, we normally explore the reef, keeping an eye on the blue for marauding hunters like barracuda and amberjacks. This time we came across a couple of spiny lobsters. Continuing on this heading we eventually arrived at the turnaround point – the so-called Roger’s Cave, which is quite an interesting cavern to explore. Had we proceed further we would have come to the huge Coral Cave, but that would have limited significantly the loitering time there, so it was opted to spend more time in Roger’s Cave and explore in an unhurried way.

At this point decompression would be most probably required, so now at the closing phase of the dive, a gradual ascent

Article by Edward Vella

to the reef top at about 8 metres is followed. The proximity of the dive boat anchorage, is a good place to carry out basic exercises such as mask removal, dsmb deployment etc.

On the way back we had another birthday, this time our PRO Nicholas Agius, or as more commonly known Nicky. This provided another excuse for indulging in an excellent chocolate cake washed down with ice cold beer – tough job this diving eh? For the second week running, lots of divers with chocolate grubby faces alighted at Marfa – bound to set people wondering…..

Photo: Joe Formosa

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Edward Vella

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICKY! Base photo: Joe Formosa

Kap San Dimitri I always look forward to a dive at San Dimitri Point. This is located at the northwestern tip of Gozo (and therefore, the north-westernmost tip of the Maltese archipelago) and we were hoping that this remoteness would be reflected in the number and variety of big fish in the area.

All of the divers who participate in the club boat dives on Sundays are well aware that Emmi Farrugia is currently filming a television series which features diving in the more remote areas of the Maltese islands. Because of this, Emmi has been accompanying us on our boat dives and filming our club’s activities. Of course, one of the numerous, non-fishy, stars of the show is none other than, the one and only, Hollywood heart-throb, ....your’s truly!

The theme for this particular episode was big fish. This dive was perfectly suited to the overall theme of the television series and we were hoping to see some large (or, at least, largish fish). Of course, we should have known better. Marine life has a nasty habit of thwarting divers’ plans and this time was no exception.

Photo: Edward Vella

- Gozo 27.07.14

Our best bet was to dive down to the boulder fields at the base of the cliff face and try to root out some grouper, dentex, or any one of the larger predatory fish which are often seen in such places.

Emmi, Miles, and myself, were filming anything that moved and, more often than not, this involved filming each other since the larger fish life did not seem willing to cooperate and refused to come into any form of camera shot.

To w a r d s the middle of the dive I did spot one grouper w h i c h must have

Photo: Edward Vella

Article by Tano Rolé

weighed about some 3 or 4 kilos and this quickly sought refuge in a small hole with its head wedged in. The hole was rather too small to accommodate the whole body of the grouper and it was quite comical to watch since half of its body was still exposed. This reminded me of the ostrich sticking its head in the sand or the proverbial Maltese Gallozz with its head in the tree-hole. By the way, has anyone ever seen a Gallozz in Malta?

I expect that they have all been shot a long time ago as part of our great tradition of bird shooting! What a shame.

Anyway, groupers have this habit of expanding their fins and gills to wedge themselves in such hiding holes. They are practically impossible to dislodge. Miles and I tried to get some footage of the grouper hoping to find an exposed face but all we managed to film was its rear end. I guess that a rear end is better than nothing at all. At least it proves that there were still some fish left there.

Photo: Tano Rolé

On a more positive note, I did manage to get some nice shots of two Dorid nudibranchs (Discodoris atromaculata) which we call baqra in Maltese due to their resemblance to the patchy hides of Friesian dairy cows.

Towards the end of the dive we came across the large cave located in this location. This was the more interesting part of the dive for me but we were unfortunately rather low on air and I was not too keen to venture deep inside the cave. Cave divers have a strict rule that they must turn back when they reach two thirds of their air supply.

This, of course, is more conservative than the standard half tank that characterises most day dives but it is understandable when diving in covered environments where surfacing is out of the question.

Perhaps it would have been better for me to ditch the camera crew and carry out a normal cave dive. Oh the demands of Hollywood....or TVM!

Base photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Edward Vella

Tac-Cawla

(aka Camma Caves) Gozo 03.08.14

Article by Tano Rolé

I have often said that Ċamma caves, located on the north-western Gozo coast, make some of the finest diving sites in the Maltese Islands and this belief is strengthened every time I go there. Of course, this site was one of the first dive sites chosen to be included in the upcoming television series which will be released during January 2015. For this reason, Emmi and I devised a plan to film taċ-Ċawla Cave and, at least one other cave in the sequence of caves along the cliff face.

We had surveyed taċ-Ċawla cave in some detail during the last couple of years and I know it very well. Some people also call this cave Ċamma 1 since it can be considered to be the first (i.e. counting from the west) cave in the Ċamma series. Whatever name we choose to call it, taċ-Ċawla is certainly the most spectacular cave in the series.

It is characterised by two magnificent entrances; located above each other and separated by an arch. I wrote a more detailed description of this cave in an earlier edition of this magazine and I am going to reproduce this here for convenience:

Tac-Ċawla (aka Ċamma 1) This is probably one of the most impressive caves in the Ċamma series.

It is also the westernmost cave and, therefore, it is also known as (aka) Ċamma 1. This large cave is characterised by a large opening at the base of the cave and another, smaller opening at a shallower depth.

Seen from deep inside the cave, this lower opening forms a beautiful arch with an almost straight lintel. This arch is 14 metres wide at the base and extends from a depth of 32.5 metres to 22 metres. The upper opening is quite different in shape appearing as a more elongated vertical gash.

This cave developed along a joint or fault line and the eastern edge forms a vertical wall which curves slightly to the east. The western wall shows a far greater degree of collapse and is characterised by several bedding planes. The outer chamber is quite large averaging 10 metres in width while an inner chamber narrows down considerably from 5 metres down to a narrow passageway which can barely accommodate a diver. Cave collapse is very prominent in the outer chamber where several boulders reduce the cave depth from 30 metres to 26 metres.

Measured at a depth of 5 metres, the entire length of the cave is just over 65 metres.

Photo: Tano Rolé

Once inside the cave, I signalled to Emmi that there is a pronounced halocline in the inner part of the cave but my powers of communication underwater are not really up to scratch since he must have misunderstood and moved away. I kept going in labouring under the impression that Emmi was following me but soon discovered that I was on my own. I was searching for the spring where fresh water was issuing but could not locate a particular vent. Eventually I made my way to the surface and popped out into a sizable elongated chamber which reflected the vertical development of the cave in general. It was some 6 metres long and two metres wide. The ceiling extended up to a pointed end but I could only guess at its height as being some 6 or 7 metres.

Edward was still waiting patiently for me outside the innermost chamber and we moved off outside the cave and east towards Hekka Point.

As we moved past Ċamma 2, I signalled to Emmi to enter this cave which is characterised by a silty floor. Several tube anemones (Cerianthus membranaceus) could be seen here on the cave floor but the visibility was not as good as we hoped. Someone was there before us and the silt was hampering our attempts at filming. We decided to move out but, at that point I saw a sizeable Dromia crab hanging on to the side of the cave wall. This was too good an opportunity to miss. I took a few pictures of the little critter and waved to Emmi to come and film it. Unfortunately, the Dromia crab did not seem to be too keen to appear on television and it hung to the cave wall grimly ignoring Emmi’s attempts to coax it into moving. I shot a video of Emmi filming the crab and eventually giving up in disgust. I often think that these are the shots that need to make it to television. All those edited clips that make a beautiful documentary are really an illusion. They are obtained from countless hours of heartbreaking hard work where animals refuse to cooperate! That is true reality television.

Photo: Edward Vella

Migra il-Ferha We were fortunate that we had perfect weather for this dive and this facilitated the continuation of our filming for the television series due to be aired on TVM during January 2015. Emmi was keen to produce an episode for this site with a storyline linking the fabled landing of Count Roger with the underwater scene.

Of course, anyone who knows the place reasonably well would realise that Count Roger (as well as his horse) must have been adept at rock climbing if they were to attempt a landing at Migra l-Ferha! Despite the steep climb, however, this place constitutes one of the very few sites which allow people to access the sea along this stretch of cliff-dominated coast.

I was more interested in discussing the unique geomorphology of this site and the freshwater seeps that characterise many of the caves in this locality. The geological faults and stratigraphy combine to funnel storm water and groundwater into particular sites which show signs of accelerated solution. This typically produces caves at, or near, the current sea level where freshwater collects to form distinct haloclines. Of course, I was keen to show these sites to the film crew and Emmi, Miles, and I set off in search of the caves that I had discovered several years ago.

Several fishermen were in the area and we had to be careful while swimming on the surface, before getting to the diving point, to avoid getting entangled in all the fishing lines that were deployed. One of the fishermen even had an “mrejkba” deployed. This is an interesting contraption which consists of a floating triangular frame which supports a small upright sail. This tiny sailboat is allowed to float out from the coast (if the wind is blowing

- Malta 10.08 .14

offshore) pulling a longline containing a series of shorter lines with baited hooks.

This is remarkably effective but it has one major drawback – the risk of the line being cut by inattentive boat drivers. Our boatman, Joseph, had to be very vigilant while approaching the drop-off point and had to manoeuvre carefully to get us near the caves while avoiding all the obstacles.

We commenced our dive near the steps that lead to the water’s edge. There is a silted cavern at this location which is at a depth of about 8 or 9 metres. Despite its location underwater, some of this cave silt is occasionally cleared by a combination of stormwater and wave action and reveals a phreatic tube which must have been eroded by a freshwater seep. I had explored this tube several years ago when a storm had cleared

Article by Tano Rolé

much of the sediment. On this occasion however, the tube was completely smothered with silt and we could only manage to enter up to a few metres inside the cave. My disappointment was soon compensated, however, when I came across a Chromodoris nudibranch just outside the cave. This was a particularly fine specimen and I was shooting away quite happily when I heard muffled screams next to me and Miles gesticulated towards a nice squat lobster. I turned my photographic attention towards the lobster and this fellow seemed quite photogenic. I also looked for its mate, since they are often seen in pairs, but I could not find any trace of it. I just hoped it was not simmering away in a restaurant kitchen.

We then proceeded southwards along the cliff wall heading towards the freshwater cave.

This cave can be found at a depth of about 5 metres but it is truly fascinating since it is characterised by a freshwater seep which forms a very distinct pool of freshwater.

This freshwater floats above the more dense, heavier, salt water and the boundary between the two bodies of water forms a distinct halocline.

The temperature of the freshwater is also several degrees cooler than the salt water.

Photo: Edward Vella

Of course, marine life is totally absent within the freshwater zone and the point of separation is clearly marked. The rocks are quite dark in the upper reaches of the cave and this is probably due to prolific bacterial growths. I need to get samples on my next dive.

I entered the cave moving slowly in order to minimize disruption to the halocline and slowly ascended into the freshwater zone. I held my breath (not a very intelligent thing to do in 5 metres despite having exhaled outside!!) and marvelled at the fractured rock formations inside. Of course, I was filming the whole sequence but, then my buddies arrived with the other cameras and that put paid to any attempt to keep things organised. This type of halocline cave may be quite dangerous to divers.

Upon entry, divers may be disoriented by the shimmering effect of the halocline and this is rendered more extreme as divers move about and release exhaled bubbles.

Photo: Edward Vella

I would recommend lifelines even in the case of small caves with distinct openings.

Rebreathers would also be quite desirable in such environments.

Upon exiting from this cave we proceeded further south along the coastline until we came to another interesting, slightly larger, cave with a distinctive ‘U’ shaped outer part. I managed to get some nice wide-angle photographs of Miles as he approached the cave with his video lights on. The foreground featured a nice red starfish (Echinaster sepositus). Emmi and I both followed this cave inland and upward until we eventually surfaced inside a vertical fissure which extended some 5 metres above us. There was also a distinct halocline inside this cave and freshwater could be seen issuing from joints in the rockface.

Photo: Tano Rolé

As we proceeded further south, I came across Emmi filming the remains of a car.

The locality of Migra l-Ferha is unfortunately infamous for the amount of cars which are driven off the cliffs. These may be stolen vehicles or insurance scams or, simply, some stupid persons’ idea of disposing of their unwanted car.

We eventually reached the large cave where our boat was waiting for us. This cave is much larger than the other caves we had explored earlier and it is truly spectacular featuring distinct ledges covered by sponges, false corals and other organisms. By this time we were getting low on air so we could not explore properly and we earmarked the site for another visit sometime soon.

Photo: Tano Rolé

Photo: Tano Rolé

Ras il-Hobz

- Gozo 17.08.14

Article & photo by Edward Vella —

Leaving the pinnacle we proceeded back to the reef, but continued on an Easterly heading, until we came to the unmistakeable form of the sewage pipe.

It could be seen going down along the slope, but there was no visible sign of any sewage. That was our turn around point.

On the way back we came across a large shoal of salema (Sarpa salpa) crossing over from the reef to the pinnacle, and since we all had sufficient air, it was decided to follow suit. The summit is at a depth of about 12 metres.

As was noticed in previous dives, there seems to be a shoal of two banded bream Diplodus vulgaris (Maltese: Xirgien) which is always present at the summit – it is probably a good feeding ground for them.

Thirty five individuals were counted in one photograph.

In spite of the initial reservations, because we have dived Ras il-Hobz many times before, this really turned out to be a pleasant dive, with plenty of sea life and good visibility. Personally this remains the best site on Gozo’s South facing coast.

This is an attractive dive – it can be done in ‘relax’ mode having a simple profile, and in return the diver gets to see the spectacular middle finger – the lone standing rock column, now getting to be known by this nick-name which up to a few years ago was simply referred to as the pinnacle.

Actually, this pinnacle was a recent discovery, or rather; this whole dive was a recent pleasant discovery. The site with its spectacular pinnacle were of course always there but along with them, there was also a big dirty pipe which spewed out most of Gozo’s sewage into the blue which did of

course did not remain so blue. No sane of mind diver would ever approach Ras ilHobz in those days. Today the pipe is still there, and it is still a sewage highway, but the sewage is now treated not raw, and it is no longer discharged at the surface but down at about 70 metres. With the pollution removed, the net result is that this has become a much sought after dive site with great visibility, more so that it can also be dived from shore.

We arrived at the pinnacle at its base, which on the landward side is at about 30 metres, and started a slow clockwise

ascent. Its base is full of recesses, in which this time a dusky grouper Epinephelus guaza (Maltese: Cerna) and a mottled grouper Mycteroperca rubra (Maltese: Cawlun) were spotted. Since it is free standing, currents sweep on either side of it, possibly stronger on the landward side due to the proximity of the reef, causing a venturi effect. This flow creates the ideal conditions for animals such as tube worms Spirographis spallanzani which feed on current carried food particles which they then trap in their multi-coloured fan.

Hekka Point

- Gozo 31.08.14

Article by Edward Vella

Situated on the North facing coast of Gozo, the dive site at Hekka Point may be considered as being infrequently dived, certainly due to its remote location, and also because it may only be reached by boat. It took a bit over an hour at a good cruising speed for the Atlantis II to get there under near perfect sea conditions. In other words the divers got a prime location and they got there in comfort.

The anchor was dropped in the shade beneath the cliffs at a location known as Halq Hamiem.

Looking up, one can see a distinctive slit in the massive overhanging sill. This time we decided that we would head East, with the aim of revisiting the lovely caves of the previous time we came here – and that was on the 29th September 2013. We did not go too deep because the caves’ lowest entrance is not deeper than 28 metres, and anyway we wanted to use our air to explore and observe the caves’ interiors.

We arrived at the first cave after about ten minutes. The cave, which rises above sea level, has a large mouth, but it does not recede too far into the cliff face, so much so that one may get away without using a torch, obviously you would be losing out on so much disguised colour all around.

Looking at the cave towards land, there is a wide platform on the right hand side with a couple of bowl shaped holes in the floor, which are excellent for descending into for some photos with unusual viewpoints.

There is also a sizeable colony of orange anthias living here, which are quite bold and approach, but scatter all over as soon as you switch on your torch. On the left hand side, the entrance consists of a sandy ramp.

I would estimate that it takes about another twelve minutes heading East (wall on the right) to reach the next cave. This one is totally immersed, and similarly to the first, there is a sandy ramp on the left hand

side, and internally the cave has the same circular shape, but goes much deeper into the cliff, and the floor is extremely silty.

Therefore care has to be exercised not to stir it up, which does not require any effort, just a lapse of concentration, and goodbye photography! For some reason, there are a large amount of dead lace bryozoans perhaps because it is after all visited by a lot of divers? We came across a nice sized spiny lobster (Palinurus elephas); while in the sediment on the cave floor there were a lot of tube anemones (Cerianthus membranaceus). Here we were about 45 minutes into the dive, so we retraced our steps (I mean fins) and headed back.

We again spent time for photography in the first cave. By the time we got back to the dive boat it was close to 90 minutes.

A really fantastic relaxed dive spent in exploration. This coast is full of these caves, so even if visits Hekka Point several times, it is going to take a bit of time to become familiar with all of them…

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Edward Vella

Photo: Joe Formosa