Geotaxis

Pronunciation
/jee-oh-taxis/
Category
Behavior
Singular
Geotaxis
Plural
Geotaxis

Definition

A term used to describe a behavioral response in which an organism moves or orientates itself in response to environmental stimuli related to gravity.

Etymology

From Greek 'geo-', meaning 'earth', and 'taxis', meaning 'arrangement' or 'movement'.

Example

Some insects exhibit geotaxis, moving upwards or downwards in response to gravity.

Related Terms

  • Gravity
  • Orientation
  • Movement