indeterminate growth

biology

Also known as: attenuated growth, continuous growth

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June 29, 2026

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Indeterminate growth in biology refers to a type of plant growth where the main stem continues to elongate indefinitely. This occurs because the stem is not limited by a terminal reproductive structure, such as a flower or fruit. Instead, growth proceeds sequentially from lateral or basal buds towards the central or uppermost buds. This contrasts with determinate growth, where the main stem terminates in a reproductive structure, halting indefinite elongation. In determinate growth, branches may continue to grow, but their growth is also restricted. This continuous growth potential is a key characteristic of indeterminate growth in plants.12

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mammal
Skin and hair
Continuous growth of hair (indeterminate), as seen on the heads of humans, is rare among mammals. 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…
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Continuous growth of hair (indeterminate), as seen on the heads of humans, is rare among mammals. 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…
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reptile
Growth and longevity
…have what is known as indeterminate, or attenuated, growth. Typically, rapid growth occurs in juveniles and slows as the individual approaches maturity and shifts its energy resources to reproduction. During most of the adult years, growth is either extremely slow or nonexistent. However, when food resources are high, active growth…
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…have what is known as indeterminate, or attenuated, growth. Typically, rapid growth occurs in juveniles and slows as the individual approaches maturity and shifts its energy resources to reproduction. During most of the adult years, growth is either extremely slow or nonexistent. However, when food resources are high, active growth…
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snake
Early development and growth
Snakes have indeterminate growth, which means there is no terminal point in time or size for growth in their lifetime, but they can continue to increase in length until they die. Sexual maturity is reached in about two years by many snakes. In the larger species, sexual…
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Snakes have indeterminate growth, which means there is no terminal point in time or size for growth in their lifetime, but they can continue to increase in length until they die. Sexual maturity is reached in about two years by many snakes. In the larger species, sexual…
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