THERMOTAXIS Meaning and
Definition
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Thermotaxis is a biological phenomenon that refers to the directed movement or orientation of an organism in response to changes in temperature within its environment. This behavior is observed across various organisms, including both animals and microorganisms.
Thermotaxis involves the ability of an organism to perceive temperature changes and subsequently alter its movement or behavior accordingly. It is a crucial adaptation mechanism that allows organisms to maintain optimal or favorable temperature conditions for their biological functions and overall survival.
Organisms exhibiting positive thermotaxis are attracted towards higher temperatures and tend to move or migrate towards warmer areas. Conversely, those displaying negative thermotaxis are repelled by higher temperatures and actively avoid or move away from warmer regions. Some organisms also demonstrate a combination of positive and negative thermotaxis, depending on specific temperature thresholds or ranges that are ideal for their survival.
The ability to exhibit thermotaxis is often achieved through specialized heat sensors or receptors present in an organism's body. These receptors detect temperature gradients and initiate appropriate bodily responses, such as muscular contractions or changes in ciliary activity, which facilitate directed movement towards or away from temperature gradients.
Thermotaxis plays a vital role in various ecological and physiological processes, including foraging, migration, reproductive behaviors, and avoidance of thermal stresses. It also aids in the maintenance of homeostasis and the regulation of metabolic functions within organisms. The study of thermotaxis provides valuable insights into the adaptations and strategies employed by different organisms to cope with diverse thermal environments.
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1. Reaction of living protoplasm to the stimulus of heat, whereby the animal or plant is attracted (positive t.) or repelled (negative t.) by heat; thermotropism. 2. Regulation of the temperature of the body.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THERMOTAXIS
Etymology of THERMOTAXIS
The word "thermotaxis" is derived from two Greek roots: "thermo", meaning heat, and "taxis", meaning arrangement or movement.
Similar spelling word for THERMOTAXIS
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