The memory of fish is not limited to seven seconds. This is a widely circulated but not accurate concept. In fact, the memory ability of fish is much more complex and long-lasting than seven seconds. Memory time span
The memory ability of fish can last for hours to months or even longer. For example, studies have shown that zebrafish can still remember and recognize the environment they have previously experienced after one year.
After training and multiple exposures, the memory of fish can be strengthened. Memory type
Spatial memory: Fish are able to remember and navigate to specific locations. For example, they can remember food sources from different locations and avoid dangerous areas.
Conditional learning: Fish can also establish memory through conditional learning. This includes learning to obtain food rewards through specific behaviors, such as pressing a button or touching an object.
Social memory: Many fish are social animals that are able to remember the identities and characteristics of other individuals, and display memories of previous experiences and individual relationships in interactions.
Situational memory: Fish are able to remember and recognize specific situations and environments, which enables them to make adaptive behaviors based on information in their environment. Scientific research support
As early as the 1960s, scientists began studying the memory ability of goldfish. Through a series of experiments, they found that goldfish can form long-term memories and respond to specific stimuli.
Other studies have also shown that there are differences in memory abilities among different types of fish, but most fish have memory abilities longer than seven seconds. influence factor
The memory ability of fish may be influenced by various factors, including genetics, training, stimulation, living environment, food habits, and social behavior.
The memory ability of fish is far more than just seven seconds. They can exhibit complex memory behaviors and play an important role in adapting to living environments and behavioral needs. We should abandon the unscientific notion that fish only have a seven second memory and approach the memory ability of fish with a more scientific and objective attitude.