Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Photoperiodism is the physiological reaction of organisms to the length of day or night. It triggers flowering, hibernation, migration and other behaviors.
Related terms
Circadian Rhythms: These are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a daily cycle. They respond primarily to light and darkness in an organism's environment.
Phytochrome: This is a type of photoreceptor in plants that absorbs light in the red and far-red region of the visible spectrum. It helps regulate plant processes such as seed germination and shade avoidance.
Biological Clocks: These are internal timing devices that are genetically set to regulate various physiological responses for different periods of activity, rest, feeding, etc.