One embodiment is directed to a method for processing a stream of tuples in a stream-based application. A stream operator may receive a stream of tuples. A stream manager may determine whether a dynamic connection exists at a first stream operator. The dynamic connection may connect the first stream operator to a second stream operator. The stream manager may poll the first stream operator and the second stream operator for a presence of the dynamic connection. The stream manager may modify processing of one or more upstream stream operators in response to a change in use of the dynamic connection.