Tropism in plants

Tropism is the response of the plant to stimuli such as (light, humidity and gravity)
 Irritability (sensitivity) and movement in plants are seen in tropisms.
 It is known that the growth of roots and stems depends on many factors such as light, humidity & gravity
 When these factors are exerted on the sides of the stem or roots in an unequal form, curvature results.
This curvature ( bend) is known as a tropism

Types of tropisms:

A- Positive and negative phototropism:

 Auxins Concentration High Low
Stem Stimulates Growth Inhibits Growth
Roots Inhibits Growth Stimulates Growth

Auxin can pass through Gelatin, Pectin, and Agar and can’t pass through Mica sheet or butter

Tropism occurs in the same direction of the

accumulation of auxins in case of:
1. Negative phototropism for the root in vertical position.
2. Positive geotropism for the root in horizontal position.
3. Positive hydrotropism for the root

Tropism occurs in the opposite direction of

the accumulation of auxins in case of:
1. Positive phototropism for the stem in vertical position
2. Negative geotropism for the stem in horizontal position