Roundup: Italy struggles to adapt as invasive species gain foothold

ROME, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) -- Fire ants, one of the world's most aggressive invasive species, have recently appeared on the southern Italian island of Sicily. At least 88 nests have been discovered near the city of Syracuse. These pests can kill small livestock, overwhelm crops, and can cause illness and even death in people.

Analysts say that the major factors behind their spread are international trade and tourism combined with a changing climate, and the problems they are causing are diverse.