https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.14418
- Processes, including selection and adaptation, by which a population of microorganisms develops the ability to degrade a substance, or develops a tolerance to it.
- In experimental systems, allowing an organism to adjust to its environment prior to undertaking a study.
- Modification of biological processes or structures in the maintenance of homeostasis in response to change in some environmental quality such as temperature, salinity, light, radiation, or toxicant concentration.
Note: It is an expression of phenotypic plasticity of individuals in response to a sublethal change in some environmental factor.