Thigmonasty, also known as seismonasty, is a trait that some plant species possess. It gives them the ability to move in response to physical stimulus (like touch) and/or vibrations. Their movement is independent of the direction the stimulus came from, so once they are “triggered” they repeat the same motion cycle.
There are quite a few plants with thigmonasty. One of the most well-known is the Venus Fly Trap (Dionaea muscipula), which employs this ability to capture insects and arachnids for sustenance, as do Bladderworts (Utricularia spp.) and Sundews (Drosera spp.). Another popular plant with this trait is the Sensitive Plant (Mimosa pudica) and the Catclaw Brier (Mimosa nuttallii), which relies on it as a defense mechanism to protect themselves from preying insects and herbivores.
Other common plant species with this trait include thistles (Asteraceae spp.), Cholla (Cylindropuntia spp.), and the Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), but these use thigmonasty for pollination purposes instead of a need for nutrients or self-preservation.
