determinate growth

biology

Also known as: asymptotic growth

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Last updated

June 25, 2026

Quick Summary

Determinate growth in biology refers to a type of growth that ceases after a certain point. In plants, this means the main stem terminates in a reproductive structure, stopping further elongation. This contrasts with indeterminate growth, where the main stem continues to grow indefinitely. Determinate growth can also describe growth that only occurs during a specific part of the vegetative season before stopping.12

Internal factors, such as hormones like auxin, gibberellins, and growth hormone, play crucial roles in regulating both plant and animal growth by influencing cell division and enlargement.3

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mammal
Skin and hair
Hairs with determinate growth are subject to wear and must be replaced periodically—a process termed molt. The first coat of a young mammal is referred to as the juvenal pelage, which typically is of fine texture like the underfur of adults and is replaced by a postjuvenile…
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Hairs with determinate growth are subject to wear and must be replaced periodically—a process termed molt. The first coat of a young mammal is referred to as the juvenal pelage, which typically is of fine texture like the underfur of adults and is replaced by a postjuvenile…
Read More

reptile
Growth and longevity
…probably follow a pattern of determinate, or asymptotic, growth as they mature. Most reptiles are characterized by a period of rapid juvenile growth that slows upon reaching full adulthood. Growth then ceases altogether a few years after maturity.
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…probably follow a pattern of determinate, or asymptotic, growth as they mature. Most reptiles are characterized by a period of rapid juvenile growth that slows upon reaching full adulthood. Growth then ceases altogether a few years after maturity.
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