Definition

A small, solid structure found in certain organisms that helps them sense gravity and orientation.

Example

The fish uses its statoliths to maintain balance in the water.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a statolith?

No, I haven't! What is it?

It's a small body that helps with balance in organisms, like fish.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about how nature works.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Statolith → It is formed from "stato-" (from Greek "statos", meaning standing or stable) and "lithos" (meaning stone). The word refers to a structure that helps maintain balance and orientation, as it is a stone-like structure that provides stability in certain organisms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'standing' ('stato-') and 'stone' ('lithos') to remember that a statolith is a stone-like structure that helps maintain balance.

Visually Confused Words