When we are about to select an organic agent for complexation, normally the maximum carbon number of the chain is 18. For example, ODPA (N=18), ODA(N=18), ODE (N=18), Oleic acid (N=18). I haven't seen a number beyond that has been used according to the previous literature. Is it just a coincidence? Why?
Linear C-12, C-14, C-16, C-18 hydrocarbon chains are ubiquitous in nature, being found in fats and oils. The compounds can be processed in large quantity, and are commercially available.
Fatty acids with longer chains (very long chain fatty acids) are less abundant in biology. They are not used to store energy (and are less readily metabolized), but seem to be components in brain and retinal tissue.
See:
Poulos, Alf. "Very long chain fatty acids in higher animals—a review." Lipids 30.1 (1995): 1-14.
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