Ecology
Facilitation
A positive interaction where one species improves conditions for another, often by modifying the environment. A key mechanism driving ecological succession.
Biological Context
Early successional species facilitate later ones: nitrogen-fixing plants enrich soil for subsequent species; shrubs provide shade allowing tree seedlings to establish; nurse plants protect seedlings from harsh conditions. Facilitation is especially important in stressful environments.
Business Application
Business facilitation: platform companies that improve conditions for ecosystem participants, accelerators that help startups grow, industry associations that set standards benefiting all members.