Science glossary film: Tropism

When a plant grows in a particular direction in response to an external stimulus. Shoots grow towards light, known as phototropism. Roots grow in the direction of gravity, called geotropism, and towards water, called hydrotropism. And vines and tendrils coil around other plants in response to contact, known as thigmotropism. Tropisms enable plants to alter their growth, helping them get what they need from their environment.

Shoots grow towards light, known as phototropism. Roots grow in the direction of gravity, called geotropism, and towards water, called hydrotropism. And vines and tendrils coil around other plants in response to contact, known as thigmotropism. Tropisms enable plants to alter their growth, helping them get what they need from their environment.