The bright side of ecological stressors

Ecological stressors are considered to negatively affect biological systems; however, corresponding responses to stressors can be complex, depending on the ecological functions and the number and duration of the stressors. Mounting evidence indicates potential benefits of stressors. Here, we develop an integrative framework to understand stressor-induced benefits by clarifying three categories of mechanisms: seesaw effects, cross-tolerance, and memory effects. These mechanisms operate across various organizational levels (e.g., individual, popula-tion, community) and can be extended to an evolutionary context. One remaining challenge is to develop scaling approaches for linking stressor-induced benefits across organizational levels. Our framework provides a novel platform for predicting the consequences of global environmental changes and informing management strategies in conservation and restoration practices.

Automated summary

Ecological stressors can have complex effects on biological systems, but there are potential benefits to be gained. This article proposes a framework to understand these stressor-induced benefits, including mechanisms such as seesaw effects and cross-tolerance. The framework operates at different organizational levels and can be applied to an evolutionary context. The challenge now is to develop scaling approaches to link these benefits across organizational levels.