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statolith

1. (Science: botany) A type of amyloplast found in root tip cells of higher plants. It can sediment within the cell under the influence of gravity and is thought to be involved in the detection of gravity in geotropism.

2. (Science: zoology) A sand grain or a structure of calcium carbonate or other hard secreted substance, found in the cavity of a statocyst. It stimulates sensory cells lining the cavity with which it comes in contact under the influence of gravity.