When do fish stop growing?

[aMay]

When do freshwater fish in general reach maturity? Not so much in terms of their reproduction capability, but in terms of their growth size. I have a tank of rainbows and was wondering about their growth cycle.

Thanks in advance, BL

 

[excuzzzeme]

Many fish have what is called "indeterminate growth", meaning they will continue to grow their entire life with the proper environment. Plecos are slow growing fish and are indeterminate. It usually takes 3-5 years when they near their average size. Most small community fish reach full adult size in a year (+/-). Larger fish grow slower and live longer than the small community fish do.

Many factors affect fish growth and speed such as food quality, tank size, tank maintenance, and water temperature. The warmer the water the faster they will grow but it will also shorten their life span accordingly. Of course just the opposite is true as well. Cooler water = slower growth, longer life.

Usually maximum sizes listed are only average and not absolute.