Taxis

Definition

A directed movement towards or away from a stimulus (such as light, heat, or chemical) by a motile organism or cell.

Etymology

From Greek 'taxis', meaning 'arrangement' or 'order'.

Example

The moth's positive phototaxis led it towards the light source.

Synonyms

• Directional movement
• Stimulus response

Related Terms

• Kinesis
• Phototaxis
• Chemotaxis

Usage Notes

Often used in the context of describing the movement of simple organisms or cells.