A plant's growth response to gravity, where roots typically grow downward (positive gravitropism) and shoots grow upward (negative gravitropism). This response helps plants orient themselves properly regardless of how seeds are planted.
Combines 'gravity' with Greek 'tropos' meaning 'turn.' Previously called 'geotropism' from Greek 'geo' (earth), but the term gravitropism became preferred as it more accurately describes the physical force involved.
Plants can sense gravity using tiny starch grains called statoliths that act like biological marbles! These dense particles settle to the bottom of specialized cells, telling the plant which way is down even in complete darkness.
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