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Loss of species richness is often due to anthropogenic activity. The global decline of amphibians is one such example. This case study examines the impact of road deicing agents on amphibians living near bridges and roads treated heavily with salt during the winter months. Concepts explored in this case include changes to the aquatic environment as a result of road deicing applications, bioaccumulation, osmoregulation in amphibians living in clean freshwater, and the impact of increased aquatic salinity levels on the ability of amphibians to adequately osmoregulate in an environment for which they are not adapted. Three short videos created by the author can be shown in class or assigned for viewing in advance for a "flipped" classroom approach. Originally developed for a general education/introductory biology course, the case could also be used with introductory level animal anatomy and physiology courses as part of a deeper exploration of the renal system.

High on Bolivia's semiarid Andean plains at more than 12,000 feet and subject to climatic whims, the shallow saline lake has dried up before only to rebound to a size twice the area of Los Angeles. But recovery may no longer be possible, scientists say. "This is a picture of the future of climate change," said Dirk Hoffman, a German glaciologist who studies how rising temperatures from the burning of fossil fuels has accelerated glacial melting in Bolivia.

KHULNA, Bangladesh - Flooding is a frequent problem in Chandipur, a village in southwestern Bangladesh. When storms increase the water levels of surrounding rivers, salty water pours in. As a result, farmland throughout the village is ruined, and growing crops becomes harder. The situation became particularly bad after Cyclone Aila hit in 2009. The storm sent salty water surging onto farmlands and it soaked into the soil. After 2009, vegetable crops in Chandipur produced small harvests. Some failed completely.