Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

thigmotropism

noun

/ˌθɪɡməˈtroʊpɪzəm/

Definition

Thigmotropism is the growth or movement of a plant in response to touch or physical contact with a solid object.

Examples

Many climbing plants exhibit thigmotropism, wrapping their tendrils around supports for stability.
When vines come into contact with a surface, they often change direction to grow along it, demonstrating thigmotropism.
Thigmotropic responses can be observed in various species, including peas and ivy.

Meaning

This term describes how certain plants can change their growth patterns when they encounter obstacles, often growing around them or leaning away from them.