Definition of stressors in English English dictionary
Any factor that may harm plants or animals; includes chemical (e g metals or organic compounds), physical (e g extreme temperatures, fire, storms, flooding, and construction/development) and biological (e g disease, parasites, depredation, and competition)
Any chemical, physical, or biological entity that can induce adverse effects on individuals, populations, communities, or ecosystems and be a cause of beneficial use impairments Examples of stressors include: pathogens, fragmentation, and destruction of terrestrial and aquatic habitats, exotic nuisance species, and uncontrolled runoff and erosion
Something that causes stress to a system As used here, stressors typically refer to anthropogenic factors that adversely affect natural ecosystems However, stressors may also be natural: floods, droughts, and harsh climates are also stressors
Any physical, chemical, or biological entity that can induce an adverse response Only chemical and physical stressors are subject to risk management decisions at Superfund sites (EPA 1997)