Growth responses refer to the ways in which living organisms adjust their growth patterns in reaction to environmental stimuli. For example, plants exhibit growth responses such as phototropism, where they bend towards light, or gravitropism, where their roots grow downward in response to gravity. These adaptations help them optimize their chances of survival and reproduction. In animals, growth responses can be seen in how they develop physical traits based on their surroundings. For instance, lizards may change their coloration to blend in with their environment, a process known as camouflage. Such responses are crucial for avoiding predators and finding food, ultimately influencing their growth and development.