Researchers at the University of Texas are warning that the invasive species from South America has the potential to change the ecological balance in the southeastern United States, largely because the ants can wipe out colonies of what's been widely considered the insect villain of the region, the fire ant.

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We should learn how to use the gifts of nature and maintain ecological balance of nature before we try to tap them.

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Individual country trends: Algeria experienced the largest change in national ecological assets balance, moving from a large reserve in 1961 to a large ecological deficit in 2008.

UNESCO: OFFICE IN VENICE

The trust added that high levels of fish live at Caen Hill lock on the Kennet and Avon Canal, so management is required to keep an ecological balance.

BBC: Fire-hit Erewash canal set to be restocked with fish

"We measure the ecological load an area can take and we offer licences only where were convinced there is a proper balance between effects of fish farming and the ability of local environment to absorb the effects of farming, " says Stewart Stevenson the Scottish Minister for Environment and Climate Change.

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