What role does ethylene play in response to stress conditions in plants?

Ethylene plays a crucial role in the plant's response to various stress conditions by triggering a range of physiological changes. When plants are under stress—such as from drought, flooding, mechanical injury, or pathogen attack—ethylene production is often stimulated. This plant hormone acts as a signaling molecule, activating stress response pathways that can lead to adaptations and survival strategies.

For instance, ethylene can promote the closure of stomata in response to drought, which reduces water loss, and it can influence the expression of genes involved in stress tolerance. Additionally, ethylene is involved in processes like fruit ripening and flower senescence, indicating its broader role in regulating growth and development under varying conditions. Therefore, its ability to instigate various physiological changes makes it vital in a plant's overall adaptive response to stress.