STATOLITHS Meaning and
Definition
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Statoliths are specialized cellular structures found in certain organisms, serving as gravity-sensing organs. These structures are primarily composed of dense, solid particles known as statoliths, surrounded by a matrix of cells or fluid. Statoliths are commonly found in plants, fungi, and invertebrates, playing a crucial role in their ability to detect and respond to gravitational forces.
In plants, statoliths are primarily located in specialized cells called statocytes. These cells contain small, starch-filled organelles called amyloplasts, which act as the statoliths. When the plant is properly oriented with respect to gravity, the statoliths settle at the bottom of the cell, allowing the plant to perceive the direction of gravity and grow accordingly. This process, known as gravitropism, enables plants to grow their roots downward and shoots upward with great precision.
In invertebrates like insects and mollusks, statoliths are positioned within specialized structures known as statocysts or statocyst-like organs. These structures contain numerous hair cells, which are sensitive to the movement of the statoliths. As the organism changes its position with respect to gravity, the movement of the statoliths is sensed by these hair cells, providing the animal with information about its orientation and enabling it to maintain stability.
Overall, statoliths are vital in the sensing and responding to gravity in various organisms, contributing to their ability to navigate, orient themselves, and adapt to their environment.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for STATOLITHS
- atatoliths
- ztatoliths
- xtatoliths
- dtatoliths
- etatoliths
- wtatoliths
- sratoliths
- sfatoliths
- sgatoliths
- syatoliths
- s6atoliths
- s5atoliths
- stztoliths
- ststoliths
- stwtoliths
- stqtoliths
- staroliths
- stafoliths
- stagoliths
- stayoliths
Etymology of STATOLITHS
The word "statoliths" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "stato" (στάτος) meaning "standing" or "stationary", and "lithos" (λίθος) meaning "stone" or "rock". Therefore, "statoliths" can be translated as "stationary stones".
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